When they thus had spoken, the kings no more did rest,
But sprang upon each other. If either got the best,
To hold it was not easy; youths were forward pushing
Under both the standards, and daring knights to help their lords were rushing.
[1438]
A fearless king was Herwic, and long and bravely fought;
But quickly Hartmut’s father the youthful Herwic smote,
Till he began to stagger ’neath blows by Ludwig given,
Who gladly would have slain him, or would from out his lands his foe have driven.
[1439]