Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/215

XIII.]

At Worms was heard the turmoil, on all sides of the town,

Of these incoming strangers. King Gunther made it known

Unto his marshal, Dankwart, that he for these must care;

So did he for the people good lodging-room prepare.

Both out of doors and indoors they e’en might feast their fill.

Ay! ne’er before were strangers welcomed with more goodwill.

Whatever they desiréd was ready at their side:

So wealthy was King Gunther to none was aught denied.

Served were they in all friendship and banish’d was all hate;

The host himself at table with all the guest-folk sate.

Siegfried must now his seat take where he afore had done;

There went to table with him full many a worthy one.

Twelve hundred gallant warriors were round the table seen

Sitting with him and feasting. Then thought Brunhild the queen,

That ne’er a sovran ruler could ever have more wealth.

Still leaned she so towards him she could but wish him health.

And verily that evening, while the king sat there yet,

Right many a costly garment was by the wine made wet,

As the cup-bearers quickly around the table went.

The servants there were many, and all right diligent.

As long had been the custom when festival was made,

Unto the maids and matrons a fair good-night they bade.

To whomsoever came there the host a welcome gave.

In kindliness and honour they all enough could have.