Then said the king to his lieges: “May God in heaven to you give careful guiding.”

[283]

To him thus Horant answered: “From fear now be you free;

When you shall see us coming, you then with us will see

A maid so fair and lovely, you well may wish to greet her.”

This the king heard gladly, but far was the day when he at last should meet her.

[284]

They took their leave with kisses, the king and many a guest;

For these the king was feeling wearisome unrest.

While they for him are toiling, each hour he fear must borrow;