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Then spake in loving fashion the wife of Rüdeger:

“Now well is me, dear lady, that I thy presence fair

Within my country’s borders and with mine eyes have seen.

To me could at this season no greater joy have been.”

“Most noble Gotelinda, God give you your reward!

If haply I,” spake Kriemhild, “and Botlung’s son be spared,

One day you may be joyful that you have seen my face.”

They both were all unknowing of what must come to pass.

Due courtesies exchanging, walk’d many maidens fair;

Their services to render the warriors ready were.

They sat, the greetings ended, upon the clover down,

And many made acquaintance, who were till then unknown.

Wine brought they for the ladies; and now ’twas full midday;

The noble folk would therefore no longer there delay.

They rode on till they came where large huts and many stood,

And for the noble strangers was waiting service good.

That night they slept in quiet until the dawning brake.

But they of Bechelaren themselves did ready make,

So that they might provide for so many a worthy guest.

Well Rüdeger had managed that little should be miss’d.

One saw how every window stood open in the wall:

The castle of Bechlaren was entry-free to all.

Therein the guests came riding, well seen of all around.

The noble host had bidden good hostel to be found.