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“Now truly,” quoth the minstrel, “I know not what they lack!

I never yet saw heroes so sluggishly hang back

When one hath heard them offer’d so noble a reward:

From this time forth can Etzel ne’er hold them in regard.

“Of those who vilely batten upon their prince’s bread

And now are fain to shun him in his most pressing need,

Of such here mark I many who would be reckon’d brave,

And stand like very cravens: shame must they ever have!”

Thereon the margrave Iring, who came from Denmark, cried:

“I have in all my doings on honour long relied,

And in the people’s battles oft gain’d the mastery:

Now bring to me my weapons; Hagen I will defy!”

“’Gainst that will I take counsel,” Hagen in answer cried;

“So bid these Hunnish warriors stand further yet aside;

If two or three among ye should rush into this hall,

Back down the stairs disabled I’ll send them, one and all!”

“For that I’ll not forego it,” said Iring, answering,

“I have ere this attempted as troublesome a thing.

With sword in hand against thee I’ll hold my own alone;

What boots thy haughty bearing that thou in words hast shown?”