176.
From Rhine they rode through Hesse, their warriors as well,
Towards the Saxon country,— where they to fighting fell.
They ravaged all the borders and spoiled with sword and brand,
Till fear fell on those princes, who sorrowed for their land.
177.
So came they o’er the marches; their followers pressed on,
And then the gallant Siegfried began to think thereon:
“Who shall defend our camp-folk, now we have brought them here?
More damage-wreaking raiders to Saxons never were.”
178.
Some counselled: “On the marchlet bold Dankwart guard our youth;
He is a trusty warrior, and swift in act, forsooth:
Let him and also Ortwein have conduct of the rear;
So shall we have less damage from Lud’ger’s men to fear.”
179.
“Then I myself will ride on,” did gallant Siegfried cry,
And keep the foremost outlook, till we the foe espy;
Until I find out where these same crafty warriors lurk.”
Fair Sieglind’s son then quickly donned helmet and hauberk.
180.
The rank and file to Hagen he entrusted as he went,
And also unto Gernat, the warrior excellent.
Then all alone forth rode he into the Saxon-land;
That very day his sword hewed full many a helmet-band.
181.
He saw a whole vast army upon the plain outspread,
By which his own few helpers were far outnumberéd;
There were full forty thousand, or even more, maybe;—
But when Sir Siegfried saw them, his heart was full of glee!
