And if he still was living when they of late had land and home forsaken.

[683]

Then answered one among them: “We left him sound and well;

But since the day we saw him we know not what befell,

Or how the men of Moorland may his home have wasted:

Mischief they had done him, neither from fire and plunder had they rested.

[684]

“Listen, high-born maiden! my master’s bidding heed:

He and all his warriors are now in sorest need.

To lose both life and honor they are fearing daily;