How King Etzel Sent into Burgundy to Propose for Kriemhild, CXLI–CL

Then spake again the mourner: "Where are my friends," said she, "Who will a life of exile endure for love of me? They with the banish'd widow to Hungary must ride; Let them take of my treasures, and clothes and steeds provide."

Then spake to the sad princess the Margrave Eckewart, "Since of your royal household first I form'd a part, I've done you loyal service; this can I truly say, And will the like do ever e'en to my dying day.

"Of my men, too, five hundred to guard you I will lead, All at your disposal, faithful and good at need. Us from the side of Kriemhild death alone shall part." She bow'd to him in silence; his words went to her heart.

Then forth were led their horses; start must they presently; There all around them flocking their friends wept bitterly. Surely did wealthy Uta with her fair maidens show How deeply they lamented that Kriemhild was to go.

A hundred high-born damsels begirt the parting queen, All clad, as well became them, in robes of glittering sheen. Full many a tear of sorrow from their bright eyes was shed. At Etzel's court soon after a joyous life they led.

Then in place young Giselher and Gernot you might view; They came, through love to Kriemhild, with all their followers true. On her way the brethren to bring their sister sought, And with them well accoutred a thousand warriors brought.

Then came the active Gary, Ortwine was present too, And there the steward Rumold his duty had to do. These found them fitting quarters e'en to the Danube's shore. A little from the city rode Gunther, and no more.

Ere from the Rhine for ever their eastward steps they bent, They to the Huns beforehand swift messengers had sent, To tell the stout King Etzel what Rudeger had done, And how he peerless Kriemhild for his lord had woo'd and won.

The messengers spurr'd hotly; no time had they to lose; They rode at once for honor and the guerdon of good news. When home they brought the tidings, and all the truth made clear, Word surely never sounded so sweet in Etzel's ear.

For joy of such fair tidings the king was pleas'd to give The messengers such presents, that thenceforth each might live Merrily for ever, e'en to his dying day. Through love the king's long sorrow vanish'd at once away.