1863.
To this made answer Hagen: “By none have we been harm’d.
It is my masters’ custom to go thus fully arm’d
To every courtly meeting,— until three days have run;
To Etzel we will tell it if aught to us be done.”
1864.
This answer made by Hagen Kriemhilda heard right well.
How hatefully upon him her sidelong glances fell!
Yet would she not more frankly her country’s customs own,
Though they to her a long time in Burgundy were known.
1865.
Yet though her hate towards him so cruel was and fell,
If anyone to Etzel the truth had dared to tell,
He doubtless had prevented what came to pass ere long:
But none of them would tell it, her mastery was so strong.
1866.
Then with the queen advancing there came a mighty band;
But this same pair of warriors deign’d not to take their stand
Two hand-breadths further backward, which made the Hunfolk wroth.
Ay, they must press and jostle with those bold heroes both.
1867.
The chamberlains of Etzel were ill-content at this,
And would upon the warriors have somewhat wrought amiss,
If they had dared to do it the king’s High Grace before.
There was a mighty jostling, but so far nothing more.
1868.
When service now was ended and they would thence be gone,
All suddenly on horseback appear’d full many a Hun;
And many a beauteous lady was with Kriemhilda seen;
Full seven thousand warriors came riding with the queen.
