When he the tidings gave them, they thought the tale he told not worth believing.

[1340]

All then said together: “It is not well to jest;

For her we long have waited, and now our time you waste.

We hoped from Ludwig’s kingdom you would bring her sooner;

To Ortwin and his followers belong the shame and blame for wrongs still done her.”

[1341]

“Ask you, then, King Herwic: he, too, has seen the maid;

And he can also tell you what wrongs on us are laid.

Could you, my friends, bethink you of any shame that’s greater?