He gladly saw them coming, and of a loving welcome was not sparing.

[1088]

Then spake the knightly Irold: “Since now by me ’tis known

That into the Hegeling kingdom, before seven weeks are gone,

I with all my followers am bidden to be riding,

For this will I be ready, whatever luck be there for us betiding.”

[1089]

The news was spread by Morunc, within the Holstein land,

That Hilda now was sending for all her friends at hand;

He said that all good warriors must the field be taking.