GUNTHER

Thou wouldst seize Gutrune's dower,
Insolent Niblung son?

HAGEN

[Draws his sword.

'Tis thus
The Niblung son demands his own.

[He rushes on Gunther, who defends himself: they fight. The vassals throw themselves between. Gunther falls slain by a stroke from Hagen.

HAGEN

Mine the ring!

[He makes a grasp at Siegfried's hand, which raises itself in menace. All stand transfixed with horror.