2280.
And Dankwart, Hagen’s brother, a fearsome man was he:
Whatever he, already, on Etzel’s chivalry
In battle had accomplish’d, e’en as the wind was naught:
The son of the bold Aldrian now like a madman fought.
2281.
Richart and Gerbart likewise, Helfrich and eke Wichart,
Who oftentimes in battle right well had play’d their part,
Now plainly show’d their prowess to Gunther’s fighting men;
Wolfbrand in combat proudly was seen to bear him then,
2282.
And like a madman raging fought ancient Hildebrand.
Full many a doughty warrior then fell by Wolfhart’s hand,
Death-stricken by his sword-blows, into the pool of blood.
Thus Rüdeger avenged they, these gallant knights and good.
2283.
Then fought the noble Siegstab as of his might was due;
Ha! and upon his foemen what goodly helmets too
Were shiver’d in the battle by Dietrich’s sister’s son;
He could not in the struggle e’er better work have done.
2284.
Thereon the sturdy Volker, as soon as he beheld
How from the tough mail-armour the blood in streamlets well’d
At gallant Siegstab’s sword-strokes, the hero’s wrath arose;
Forward he sprang to meet him: and so his life to lose
2285.
Upon the spot had Siegstab through that same fiddle-man;
Who forthwith of his cunning to give such proof began
That by his mighty weapon quick death must needs ensue.
Old Hildebrand avenged him, as of his strength was due.
