Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/213

XIII.]

By this time was arrivèd Sir Siegfried with his men.

One saw the heroes riding forwards and back again

In all parts of the meadows, a vast and shapeless host;

None there could get away from the thronging and the dust.

Now when the country’s ruler did gallant Siegfried see,

Together with King Siegmund, how courteously spake he:

“Ye are to me right welcome, and unto every friend!

I trow your royal visit in joy to us will end.”

“God prosper you!” quoth Siegmund, that honour-loving man.

“Since my son Siegfried’s friendship for you and yours began.

’Twas aye my hope and purpose one day your face to see.”

King Gunther said: “I also am glad that it should be.”

Then was Siegfried receivéd, as well did him beseem,

With ev’ry fitting honour: which none amiss did deem.

And Giselher and Gernot did lend all courteous aid.

Methinks to no guests ever were kindlier honours paid.

And now the two kings’ spouses anigh each other came,

Empty was many a saddle, as many a beauteous dame

Was by the hands of heroes dismounted on the grass:

For those who loved fair women no little work there was!

Then lovingly the ladies unto each other went;

And many a knight who saw it was heartily content

That of these twain the greeting so handsomely befell.

Then many a warrior saw one stand by each damosel.