[462]
In haste were all then bidden who ought with him to go;
They still made ready slowly, till gifts he should bestow
Of all things that they needed; they for this were waiting.
At length by him were gathered a thousand men or more, for Hilda’s greeting.
[463]
Gay were they in clothing,— ’gainst this could none say nay,—
Poor as well as wealthy were shining in war-array:
To bring the lovely ladies to their new home and dwelling
Were Hettel’s lieges earnest; with lofty hopes of this their hearts were swelling.