How Kriemhild Departed, XXXVI–XLVII

In turn, as well befitted her state and lofty line, So well Dame Gotelind treated the strangers from the Rhine, That few were there among them, but from her copious store Precious stones in plenty or gorgeous raiment bore.

When they their fast had broken, and ready were to part, Then the noble hostess with true and faithful heart Proffer'd her constant service to Etzel's stately queen, Who much caress'd and fondly the fair young margravine.

To the queen said the damsel, "If it seem you well, Of the mind of my father this I can truly tell, That he would gladly send me among the Huns to you." That the young maiden lov'd her, how well fair Kriemhild knew!

Their horses now were saddled, and brought before the town. Thither the noble Kriemhild came from the castle down, And bade farewell to Gotelind and to her daughter dear. Many a maid of many a maiden took leave with many a tear.

They look'd on one another but seldom from that day. At Medilich to the strangers were handed on the way Rich golden cups, well fashion'd, and thereto, as a sign Of free and hearty welcome, fill'd to the brim with wine.

Here held his wary station a host that Astolt hight; From him the road to Austria the travellers learn'd aright, Toward Mautern down the Danube; all anxious there were seen To meet with zealous service King Etzel's gracious queen.

There lovingly the bishop parted from his niece, How strongly he advis'd her to live in joy and peace, And gain fair fame and credit as Helca did of yore! Ah! what high honors thenceforth among the Huns she bore!

Thence their way to the Traisem the noble strangers made. The men of the good margrave all fair attendance paid, Till the Huns to meet them came riding o'er the green. Then with royal honors was welcomed the fair queen.

Fast beside the Traisem the King of Hungary Possess'd a famous castle kept well and warily; It's name was Zeissenmauer; there Helca once did dwell, Displaying such high virtues, that none could her excel,

Save only peerless Kriemhild, who well knew how to give; Sure, after all her sorrows, she might contented live, Such crowds of Etzel's warriors were proud on her to wait, Adorers of her beauty and vassals of her state.

Wide was the rule of Etzel, and wider his renown; The most redoubted champions from castle and from town Were at his court assembled; together, all and some, Christian knights and Paynim, they now with him were come.

With him at every season was many a prowest chief Alike of heathen doctrine and of the true belief. Whate'er his faith, each warrior was prompt at Etzel's call, And the king was so gracious, he gave enough to all.