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XX.]

Then wrathfully cried Giselher, of Uté fair the son:

“We need not all be traitors, though thou perchance be one!

If honour doth befall her, right joyful should we be,

Whate’er thou sayest, Hagen, I’ll serve her faithfully.”

When Hagen heard that saying, anger’d was he in mood:

For Giselher and Gernot, proud warriors both and good,

And mighty Gunther likewise, did all of them agree

That if it pleased Kriemhilda they would no hindrance be.

Then spoke the princely Gere: “The lady I’ll advise

That she do let King Etzel find favour in her eyes:

So many knights obey him, and suit and service owe,—

He yet may make her happy in spite of all her woe.”

Then went the ready warrior where Kriemhild he did see;

She graciously received him: how quickly then spake he!

“Well may you greet me, lady, and give me herald’s bread,

For good luck comes to save you now out of all your need.

“For love of you, dear lady, lo! there hath hither sent

One of the best and greatest that e’er had government

O’er realm with highest honour, or ever crown shall wear;

And noble knights sue for him: your brother bids declare.”

Then spake the sorrow-laden: “Now God prohibit thee

And all my friends from making a mockery of me!

Of me, the poor forlorn one! what could I be to one

Who heart-felt love hath ever from a good woman won?”