Yet when bold Iceland’s rocky shores
Had passed from sight at last,
What sorrow fills each maiden breast!
Their tears fall thick and fast.
Chapter XI
The Welcome
WHEN they had come once more to land, Siegfried rode on before to proclaim the glad tidings, for much he craved sight of Kriemhild, nor was the maiden’s joy less when she again beheld the gallant hero for whose fate she so long had trembled. As a token of her happiness at his safe return she gave him four-and-twenty golden armlets, set with precious stones, to be divided among his bravest followers.
There was great stir in Worms to prepare for the home-coming of Günther and his bride. The spacious hall was magnificently decorated and set with long tables and benches, for all the lords and knights of the realm were bidden to the feast, while the whole court made ready to go forth to meet the returning company. At the head of the long train rode Kriemhild with her mother, mounted on noble steeds; and after them a hundred ladies of the court, all on white palfreys, richly caparisoned, their bridles gleaming with gold. Each horse was led by a man-at-arms, bearing lance and shield, while the robes of Kriemhild and her women sparkled with gold and jewels. Behind them rode a troop of armed knights. Soon the two trains met, and joyous greetings followed.
Then did the Lady Kriemhild
Advance with modest mien