1325.
When they enough had eaten, and time it was to start,
The mistress of the household proffer’d, with all her heart,
Most true and loyal service to Etzel’s wife to-be.
Then was the fair young maiden embraced right lovingly.
1326.
Unto the Queen thus spake she: “If it seem good to you,
I know that my dear father right gladly this will do:
He’ll send me into Hunsland that I with you may be.”
That she was loyal-hearted Kriemhilda well could see.
1327.
In front of Bechelaren the horses had been led;
The noble queen already her parting words had said
Unto the wife and daughter of margrave Rüdeger;
With greetings, too, departed full many a maiden fair.
1328.
They scarce from that day forward saw one another more.
And when they came to Medlick, lo! in their hands men bore
A store of brave gold flagons, wherein, unto the street,
Wine brought they for the strangers; to give them welcome meet.
1329.
There was a lord of manor here dwelling, hight Astold;
Into the Austrian country the way to them he told:
By Mautern, somewhat further the Danube stream adown.
There right true service later the mighty queen did own.
1330.
Unto his niece the bishop a loving farewell bade;
To be of cheerful spirit her earnestly he pray’d,
And win herself such honour as Helka erst had done.
Ay! what great honour later amongst the Huns she won!
