Hagen, the king, was lordly, and took it ill that their pride should them embolden.

[353]

To the king they now betook them; many were they who came;

There they found, for pastime, for each some merry game:

Draughts were many playing, or spear and shield were trying;

For these they cared but little, but ever were in Hagen’s praises vying.

[354]

As happens oft in Ireland, with every kind of fun

Forthwith the men made merry. In this old Wâ-te won

A friend for himself in Hagen; but to win the ladies’ praises,