Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/214

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The throng of noble people each other’s hands did take;

Whilst men unto each other their courtly bows did make,

The ladies fair were kissing each other lovingly,—

Which Siegfried’s men and Gunther’s right joyous were to see.

No longer did they linger, but rode towards the town.

The host meanwhile had bidden that every guest be shown

How truly he was welcome to royal Burgundy.

Then many a match was tilted for maidens fair to see.

And Hagen, too, from Tronjé, and Ortewein also,

That they were men of power did all they could to show;

And whatsoe’er they order’d that durst no man gainsay.

Unto the guests so welcome much service offer’d they.

The clang of shields resounded before the castle-gate

From many a thrust and parry; and long thereby did wait

The host and guests together, ere within doors they came;

Ay, and the hours sped quickly with many a merry game.

Before the stately palace all joyously they rode;

And many fine-wrought housings, of handsome stuff and mode

Were seen upon the saddles of many a well-dight dame,

On either side low-hanging. Then Gunther’s chieftains came.

The guests unto their chambers were taken presently.

One saw how Lady Brunhild at times would cast her eye

Toward the Lady Kriemhild, who verily was fair.

Her colour in bright beauty might well with gold compare.