Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/371

XXVIII.]

As soon as the Burgundians were come to Hunnish land,

Of Bern a chieftain heard it,— the aged Hildebrand.

Unto his lord he told it; to him ’twas all unmeet;

Yet bade he them with kindness the valiant knights to greet.

The ready Wolfhart bade them to bring the horses out.

Then rode along with Dietrich full many a warrior stout,

As towards the open country to welcome them he went.

There had they pitch’d already full many a noble tent.

When Hagen, lord of Tronjé, them from afar espied,

Unto his masters turning, in courteous words he cried:

“Now, please ye, gallant warriors, dismount on to your feet,

And them whom you would welcome go forth yourselves to meet.

“The company that cometh is right well known to me:

They are the doughty warriors from Amelung country,

And he of Bern doth lead them; they are of courage high.

’Twere better not to flout them when folk to serve ye try.”

Then down from horse alighted (as was indeed but right)

All they who came with Dietrich, full many a squire and knight.

They walk’d towards the strangers, where they the chiefs could see,

And courteously greeted the men of Burgundy.