All the men he was able Hettel for this now sought

All the men he was able Hettel for this now sought; Greatly was he hoping, and much thereof he thought, So great a host to muster, and these so well outfitted, That never to king’s fair daughter so fine a welcome might again be meted.

In haste were all then bidden who ought with him to go; They still made ready slowly, till gifts he should bestow Of all things that they needed; they for this were waiting. At length by him were gathered a thousand men or more, for Hilda’s greeting.

Gay were they in clothing,— ’gainst this could none say nay,— Poor as well as wealthy were shining in war-array: To bring the lovely ladies to their new home and dwelling Were Hettel’s lieges earnest; with lofty hopes of this their hearts were swelling.

Soon as they left the castle, shouts the land did fill, As they their way were making thro’ lowland and o’er hill; Men saw upon the pathways crowds still thronging nearer: Hettel hastened forward, to see the maid, than every other dearer.

At last the aged Wâ-te, the knight from the Sturmisch land, Had reached the Waalisch marches and stepped upon the sand. There on the shore were gathered the sailors, water-weary; Shelter they sought for Hilda, and in a friendly land were glad to tarry.

Stakes for tents were driven near to the broad sea-flood By the followers of Wâ-te; they were in happy mood. Erelong the news was bruited, and soon to them was given, That Hettel, king of the Hegelings, had left his home, and now was near them even;

And that he with many liegemen was riding down to the shore, To meet his well-belovéd. Now hoped the maids the more That she with greatest honor should, as her birth befitted, Be brought into his kingdom. No more the thought of strife their hearts affrighted.

The guests for nothing wanted, they had both wine and food; Those who were living near them freely on them bestowed The best that they were able; the wants of all they heeded; Whate’er they had they gave them, and left them not to lack for aught they needed.