ADVENTURE XXI.—HOW KRIEMHILDA WENT TO THE HUNS.
1290.
Leave we the heralds riding: we must make known to you
How the Queen’s journey prosper’d, as she the land rode through;
And where from her did Gernot and Giselher depart.
Right truly each had served her, as taught of faithful heart.
1291.
They rode as far as Pfoering, upon the Danube-strand.
Then of the queen began they kind quittance to demand,
Since homeward they returning unto the Rhine would ride:
Nor might this without weeping ’twixt loving friends betide.
1292.
Then Giselher the ready unto his sister said:
“If ever thou, fair lady, shouldst stand in need of aid,
If e’er thou art in danger, fail not to let me know.
To Etzel’s land to serve thee I presently will go.”
1293
Those who were of her kindred upon the mouth she kist;
And at the hour of parting full many a loving tryst
One saw the liegemen keeping of margrave Rüdeger:
For many a well-dight maiden the queen led forth with her.
1294
Five score and four in number: rich clothing did they wear
And brightly tinctured cloth-stuffs: and many men did bear
Broad shields to guard the ladies beside them on the way.
But many a princely warrior must part from them that day.
