For the which thou must make atonement, if this may be compassed of me.
God look on my friends and reward them: right well have they holpen me!”
“Well mayst thou thank thine helpers,” spake Lüdiger answering:
“In sooth such high-born captives had never earthly king!
And now for knightly warding we tender thee goodly fee,
And pray thee for gracious dealing with them that were foes unto thee.”
“Unto both of you freedom from fetters,” he answered, “will I accord,
So all which have fought against me abide here still in ward:
And for this shall ye give me pledges that none shall leave my land,
Except as I give them licence.” To the covenant gave they the hand.