1171.
Then said the margrave to her: “Beloved wife of mine,
The men who hence are riding with me unto the Rhine,
All kindly must thou offer with them thy stores to share:
When heroes fare right nobly more stout of heart they are.”
1172.
She answered: “There is no man who cares to take of me,
To whom whate’er beseemeth I give not willingly,
Or ever hence depart ye, thou and thy fighting men.”
Then said to her the margrave: “So doth it please me then.”
1173.
Ay, and what noble garments they from the store-rooms bare!
For every noble warrior there was a plenteous share.
All lined they were with peltry downwards from throat to spur;
What best his purpose suited was chosen of Rüdeger.
1174.
Upon the seventh morning from Bechelaren rode
The host with all his warriors. Weapons and raiment good
They bore with them in plenty through the Bavarian land;
Nor on the road were harass’d by any robber band.
1175.
Within a twelve days’ journey they to the Rhine did ride;
The tidings of their coming small chance there was to hide.
Some to the king gave warning, and eke his men did tell,
That stranger-guests were coming. The host to asking fell
1176.
If they were known to any? that was he fain to know.
One saw their sumpter-horses so heavy-laden go:
That they were very wealthy was plain enough to see.
In the great town was found them a hostel presently.
