They then betrothed the maiden at once to the knightly king,
Who in his land would crown her. This did gladness bring
To him, and sorrow likewise: ere many years were ended,
And she to him was wedded, good knights in stormy fight their lives defended.
[666]
To take the maiden with him Herwic now was fain;
But this her mother grudged him: thereby much woe and pain
Came upon him later from foes as yet unheeded.
The king was told by Hilda that longer time ere she be crowned was needed.
[667]