Before his friends and kinsmen then spake King Sigeband

Before his friends and kinsmen then spake King Sigeband: “Unto my dear son Hagen give I now my land, With the dwellers and the strongholds, be they far or nearer. Let all my trusty liegemen have him now for their lord, and hold none dearer.”

As soon as his father, Sigeband, his sway did thus forego, Hagen his lands and castles began in fief to bestow; This he did right freely, and to those to whom he gave them He seemed so true and worthy that they indeed from him would gladly have them.

As by feudal law is rightful, many stretched the hand To the youthful king in fealty. To all, from every land, Or far or near, then gave he clothes and riches hoarded. A feast so freely given would now the poor not harm, and with thanks be rewarded.

At court now dwelt the maidens who had before been brought With him within those borders; of these one now was sought, And sent to the king and Hilda; there she soon was dwelling. The maid it was from Iserland; of one more fair to see none e’er was telling.

A princely youth soon wooed her, who saw the maiden fair Beside the king’s fair daughter. Soothly might he swear That she by right was worthy to be of a crown the wearer. She had erst been Hilda’s playmate; of widespread lands she now became the sharer.