566.
Then all along the highways throughout the countryside
Were seen the three kings’ kinsmen, who bidden were to ride
And wait the guests’ arrival, who soon were to appear.
While from the stores was taken abundance of rich gear.
557.
Erelong was spread the rumour that certain folk had seen
Brunhilda’s friends approaching; at which there did begin
Great stir among the people in the Burgundian land,
Ay me! what gallant warriors were seen on either hand!
568.
Then spake the fair Kriemhilda: “Ye maids attending me,
Who would at this reception fain bear me company,
Go, seek from out my presses the richest robes and best:
That thereby praise and honour we gain from every guest.”
569.
The warriors came shortly,— who ordered to be brought
The saddles nobly-fashioned, with finest gold inwrought,
On which should ride the ladies, at Worms upon the Rhine.
One never saw horse-trappings more fitting or more fine.
570.
Ha! what a golden gleaming from these gay palfreys shone,
And how the bridles sparkled with many a precious stone!
The footstools eke were golden, on carpets bright and good
Placed for the ladies’ mounting: right joyous was their mood.
571.
The women’s mares were saddled, and in the court did stay
For the young maids of honour,— as I erewhile did say.
Small saddle-bows and silken one saw these palfreys bear:
The finest silk, I warrant, of which you e’er could hear.
H
