1653.
This promised both the ladies and did themselves prepare,
And sought from out their coffers for raiment rich to wear,
That they to meet the warriors in fit attire might go.
Amidst the comely damsels there was a great to-do.
1654.
Of painted women’s faces one found there few enough.
They wore upon their foreheads bright bands of golden stuff,
Like costly chaplets fashion’d, that thus their lovely hair
The wind should not dishevel: ’tis truth that I declare.
1655.
Now let us leave the ladies in all this business.
Across the open country all eager was the press
Of Rüdeger’s retainers to where the princes stay’d;
Within the margrave’s county right welcome were they made.
1656.
As soon as towards him coming the margrave them espied,
How Rüdeger the valiant in words of gladness cried:
“Be ye, my lords, right welcome, and likewise all your men;
How glad am I to see you here in my own domain!”
1657.
In trust, with no misliking, the warriors to him bow’d;
That he all goodwill bore them to all he plainly show’d.
Apart he greeted Hagen, a friend of old was he;
And did the like to Volker, the knight of Burgundy.
1658.
Dankwart he also greeted; whereon that bold thane spake:
“Since thou wilt give us shelter, pray, who shall undertake
To cater for our people whom we have brought so far?”
Then answer’d him the margrave: “This night be free from care.
