The warriors drew rein in the courtyard, while Hildebrand lowered his shield and asked in Dietrich’s name if it was indeed true that they had slain Sir Rüdiger. For such foul wrong, he added, might not go unavenged.
Hagen replied: “Heartily do I wish, Sir Hildebrand, that thou hadst been deceived. Yet it is true, alas! Noble Rüdiger lies dead in this hall, nor can his loss be bewailed too deeply!”
Then arose a great cry of woe from Dietrich’s band, and many a bearded warrior’s cheeks were wet with tears.
For sobbing, noble Hildebrand
No question more could ask:
Said he: “Now, knights, perform the will
Of him who set the task!
Give us, from out the hall forthwith
Sir Rüdiger again,
Whose death is cause of so much grief