This the wicked Gerlind heard, as the warder cried

This the wicked Gerlind heard, as the warder cried; Then, while fast he slumbered, she left the old king’s side. Up to the roof of the castle then at once she hastened; She thence saw many foemen, and on her devilish heart great sorrow fastened.

Back again she speeded to where she found the king: “Awake, my lord, make ready for guests who followers bring! Now hem they in your castle, and well may they be dreaded: That smile of young Gu-drun will cost your knights a strife as yet unheeded.”

“Hush!” then answered Ludwig, “I will go myself to see; We must all be bravely waiting for whatsoe’er may be.” Then looked he from his castle, to see the foemen thronging; His eyes by guests were greeted, on whom to look he never might be longing.

Before his palace waving, he saw their banners spread; Then said the old King Ludwig: “Let some one go with speed And bear this news to Hartmut. I for pilgrims take them, To sell their wares come hither; before my hall a market would they make them.”

Then they wakened Hartmut, that he the tale might hear. Outspoke that daring warrior: “Let none be sad or fear. I see full twenty princes their blazoned banners bearing; I ween these foes are coming to wreak the hate they long ’gainst us are wearing.”