[He starts slightly upon perceiving the VALKYRIER. They advance towards him, hand in hand.
Excuse me my astonishment, fair war-maids!
THE FIRST. Hail to thee dauntless warrior, bane of Gelder!
THE SECOND. Hail to thee, Skoldung, valiant son of Hothbrod!
THE THIRD. Hail, hail to thee, my Hother, Leire’s ruler!
HOTHER (astonished.) Ye know me!
THE THIRD. Yes, thou noble youth, and love thee!
HOTHER. Your goodness overwhelms me—to what godhead
Stand I indebted for this lucky meeting?
THE FIRST. I bring to thee a spear to fight with heroes!
THE SECOND. And this, I hand to thee, can slaughter demons!