Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/40

xxxvi are here suddenly introduced, at Santen (Xanten), the Court of Netherland; whither, to his glad parents, after achievements (to us partially known) “of which one might sing and tell forever,” that noble prince has returned. Much as he has done and conquered, he is but just arrived at man’s years: it is on occasion of this joyful event that a high-tide (hochgezit) is now held there, with infinite joustings, minstrelsy, largesses and other chivalrous doings, all which is sung with utmost heartiness. The old King Siegemund offers to resign his crown to him; but Siegfried has other game a-field: the unparalleled beauty of Chriemhild has reached his ear and his fancy; and now he will to Worms and woo her, at least “see how it stands with her.” Fruitless is it for Siegemund and the mother Siegelinde to represent the perils of that enterprise, the pride of those Burgundian Gunthers and Gernots, the fierce temper of their uncle Hagen; Siegfried is as obstinate as young men are in these cases, and can hear no counsel. Nay he will not accept the much more liberal proposition, to take an army with him, and conquer the country, if if must be so; he will ride forth, like himself, with twelve champions only, and so defy the future. Whereupon, the old people finding that there is no other course, proceed to make him clothes; —at least, the good queen with “her fair women sitting night and day,” and sewing, does so, the father furnishing noblest battle and riding gear;—and so dismiss him with many blessings and lamentations. “For him wept sore the king and his wife, but he comforted both their bodies (lip); he said, ‘Ye must not weep, for my body ever shall ye be without care.’”

Sad was it to the Recken, Stood weeping many a maid;

I ween their heart had them The tidings true foresaid,

That of their friends so many Death thereby should find;

Cause had they of lamenting, Such boding in their mind.