Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/323

XXIV.]

Without delay they met with folk who were well content

To take the clothing gladly; and unto them ’twas sent.

And thereupon the strangers put on far better gear,

As it behoves kings’ heralds in full array to wear.

So went, when leave was given, to where the monarch sat

Those followers of Etzel: and all were glad thereat.

With courtesy did Hagen towards the heralds make,

And gave them kindly greeting, for which their thanks they spake.

To learn from them the tidings to questioning he fell,

If Etzel and his lieges were faring all right well?

Then answer’d him the minstrel: “Ne’er throve the country more,

Nor were the folk so happy,— of that thou may’st be sure.”

Towards the host then went they. Crowded the palace was;

Unto the guests was offer’d such kindly welcome as

In foreign kings’ dominions is ever given of right.

And there, in Gunther’s service, found Werbel many a knight.

And graciously King Gunther began to greet them then:

“Be both of ye right welcome, ye Hunnish minstrelmen,

And your companions also. Ye are, I understand,

Sent hither by great Etzel to the Burgundian land?”

Before the king they bow’d them, and then spake Werbelin:

“To thee his service offers that well-loved lord of mine;

And to this land thy sister Kriemhilda greeting saith.

They send us to you warriors trusting in your good faith.”