Slowly step the horses, with armor heavy-loaded.

Some evil has befallen. Oh! say what harm to the king is now forboded?”

[924]

When thus the queen had spoken, but little time had passed

Ere to the aged Wâ-te crowds came up in haste,

Who of friends and kinsfolk tidings now were seeking.

Soon a tale he told them with which the hearts of all were well-nigh breaking.

[925]

Thus spake the Sturmisch Wâ-te: “Your loss I may not hide,

Nor falsehood will I tell you; all in the fight have died.”