Tale the Thirtieth

Homeward the men of the Hegelings gladly took their way; But many whom they carried erewhile across the sea Now lay dead and wounded; these must they be leaving: Three thousand men or over were mourned by friends, who tears to each were giving.

Now their ships went smoothly, the winds for them were good: Bearing home their booty they came in happy mood. How it was done I know not, they sent on men before them Unto the Hegeling ladies: of what had them befallen they tidings bore them.

With all their speed they hastened,— that I well can say,— And reached at last their kingdom,— I cannot tell the day. Never a tale so happy had Lady Hilda gladdened As this that now they told her: Ludwig was slain, who long her life had saddened.