He for this will thank me.” Soon was the king high praise from Wâ-te earning.
[363]
To him old Wâ-te answered: “A pledge I now must hear
That I from you, great Hagen, no guile soe’er may fear;
Should I by you be wounded, with ladies’ scorn shall I redden.”
In the fight was Wâ-te nimble; such quickness to believe should none be bidden.
[364]
The simple, untaught fencer smote Hagen many a blow;
Till, like a wet brand steaming, was the king before his foe.
The learner outdid his teacher: well his strength he boasted.