Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/227

XIV.]

They let the matter rest; then to jousting did they take.

Ha! many a sturdy lance-shaft for Siegfried’s wife they brake

In shadow of the minster, up to the royal hall!

Yet were some men of Gunther’s but ill-content withal.

The king spake: “Lay aside now this murd’rous hate and scorn;

Unto our weal and honour he verily was born.

So fierce his strength is also, this marvellous-bold knight,

Had he of this an inkling, none durst withstand his might.”

“He’ll never know,” quoth Hagen, “save thou should let it out!

I trow that I in secret can bring it so about

That for Brunhilda’s weeping sore reckoning he shall pay.

Yea, verily is Hagen his enemy for aye.”

Then spake the royal Gunther: “And how may that be done?”

And Hagen said in answer: “That will I now make known.

We’ll bid two unknown envoys to ride as from afar

Unto our land, fore all men to challenge us to war.

“Then thou, before the guests, wilt declare that thou must go

To battle, with thy liegemen; and when he that doth know

He’ll offer you his service: so shall he lose his life.

I’ll seek to learn his secret from the bold warrior’s wife.”

Unto his vassal Gunther in evil hour gave ear.

With treason foul to tamper, ere any grew aware,

Began those chosen warriors of chivalry the boast.

By wrangling of two women was many a hero lost.