Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/254

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However deep her sorrow, and dire as was her need,

Yet did she for the Niblungs fear with such mighty dread

Death, by her brother’s liegemen, that she would have them stay:

She warn’d them in all kindness, as friends each other may.

Thus spake the grief-lorn lady: “My lord Siegmund, what dost

Thou think to take in hand now? Thou hast not weigh’d the cost.

King Gunther hath so many bold warriors at command,

That all of ye will perish if ye his knights withstand.”

With shields already lifted, they needs must to the fray;

The noble queen besought them and even bade them stay,

And seek not for a conflict— these knights of courage high.

Yet would they not forego it; which grieved her verily.

So said she: “Noble Siegmund, ’twere best to let it be

Until a fitter season: then will I readily

Avenge with you mine husband. Who me hath widow made,

To him, when it is proven, shall evil be repaid.

“Hereby upon the Rhine-strand dwells many a haughty knight:

I cannot therefore counsel that you with them should fight.

Full thirty warriors have they against our every one.

God grant that they may prosper as they to us have done!

“Ye must remain beside me, this grief with me to share;

And, when the day is dawning, ye heroes bold prepare

To help me in his coffin my husband dear to lay.”

Then all the thanes made answer: “It shall be as you say.”