So wroth grew Sivard at the sight,
And loud around he ’gan to shout:
“Upstand ye all my merry men tall,
For here is come a Kemp so stout.
“Now take ye brand and shield in hand,
And look ye wield them both aright;
Unto our home is Hafbur come,
Unasked by me, the hard necked wight.”
Upon the door they struck with power,
With shield and faulchion struck they hard:
“Come out, come out, young Bear,” they shout,
“Come out unto the castle yard.”
When that heard she, proud Signelil
Her lily hands she fell to wring:
“Ah! dost not hear, Prince Hafbur dear,
How they for thee are clamouring?”
Praise be to Hafbur, princely youth,
Against a host he made a stand;
They could not all the youth enthrall
Till snapped the bed post in his hand.
They Hafbur took, and him they placed
In shackles strong and newly made;
But them in twain he burst amain,
As had they only been of lead.
Then raised the ancient maid her voice,
And cursèd counsel came from her:
“Bind yonder Bear with Signe’s hair,
And hand or foot he will not stir.
“Sirs, straightway bind ye Hafbur’s hands
With one of Signe’s silken hairs;
That little hair he will not dare
To break, such love for her he bears.”
And they took two of Signild’s hairs,
And bound with them his mighty hands;
Such love possest the Hero’s breast,
He would not burst the tiny bands.
Then out and spake proud Signelil,
Adown her cheeks the tears ran fast:
“O Hafbur tear the paltry hair,
Thy Signe’s free consent thou hast.”