1383.
As with his wife beside him the king rode from the strand,
The noble dame Kriemhilda was given to understand
The name of every lady, the better them to greet.
Ay, mightily she bore her sitting in Helka’s seat.
1384.
To her was faithful service render’d right readily.
Wherefore the queen divided her gold and jewelry,
Her silver and apparel: whate’er she did convey
From over Rhine to Hunsland must all be given away.
1385.
Also with suit and service subject to her, from then,
Were all of the king’s kinsmen, and likewise all his men.
Never had Lady Helka enjoy’d such potent sway;
So must they serve Kriemhilda until her dying day.
1386.
Then stood so high in honour the court and realm around,
That men came there at all times, and chosen pastime found,—
To whatsoe’er it might be that each one’s heart did lean,—
Be it the king’s good favour or bounty of the queen.
ADVENTURE XXIII—HOW KRIEMHILDA THOUGHT TO AVENGE HER INJURY.
1387.
In great estate of honour, as truly doth appear,
They dwelt with one another until the seventh year.
During this time the king’s wife brought forth a son and heir;
Whereat the royal Etzel could ne’er be happier.
