Hettel was lord in Daneland; to be its king he rose

Hettel was lord in Daneland; to be its king he rose; ’Twas in the Sturmisch marches, as many a one well knows; There abode his kindred, who ways of honor taught him. Ortland also served him. His might and worth high fame with all soon brought him.

One among his kinsfolk the name of Wâ-te bore; He for his lands and castles fealty to Hettel swore. As kinsman of his master, he careful teaching gave him In all things good and worthy, and in his watchful care did ever have him.

A landed knight in Daneland was Wâ-te’s sister’s son, The brave and upright Horant. Later his faith was shown Unto his lord, King Hettel, who for his worth did crown him. This to him he grudged not, but ever for a prince was glad to own him.

Hettel, rich and mighty, at Hegeling held his seat, Not far from the lord of Ortland; this is true, I weet. He there owned many castles, eighty at least or over; They who these strongholds guarded in truest faith and honor held them ever.

Lord he was of Friesland, its waters and its land; Ditmarsh, as well as Waleis, were swayed by his kingly hand. Hettel was truly mighty; his kinsmen they were many; Bold was he and daring, and ’gainst his foes he plotted, well as any.

Hettel was an orphan, and so he felt the need That he a wife should find him. To him, at last, were dead Father as well as mother, who their lands had left him. He friends in truth had many, yet found he much in life that of bliss bereft him.