1677.
To him made answer Gernot, that man of breeding high:
“If I would have a sweetheart, my heart to satisfy,
So would I such a woman be ever glad to wed.”
Then Hagen put his word in, with kindly speech, and said:
1678.
“’Tis still to be remember’d Lord Giselher should wed:
Of ancestry so noble the margravine is bred,
That I and all his liegemen would serve her willingly,
If with a crown upon her she came to Burgundy.”
1679.
To Rüdeger this counsel in every way seem’d good,
As likewise to Gotlinda: ay, both were glad of mood.
And soon the chiefs so order’d that she was bride beloved
Of Giselher the noble, as well a king behoved.
1680.
When aught is bound to happen who may the same gainsay?
Forthwith they bade the damsel to court to take her way.
They took an oath to give him the winsome maid to wife,
And he, on his side, promised to love her as his life.
1681.
They gave the maiden warrant for castles and for land,
The noble king confirm’d it by oath and his right hand,
As likewise did Lord Gernot, that thus it should be done.
Then spake to them the margrave: “Though castles I have none,
1682.
“Yet you will I at all times in faithful friendship hold:
I give unto my daughter of silver and of gold
As much as five score horses may carry at their best,
That so well-pleased, in honour, the hero’s kin may rest.”
