They were fain with Gunther’s liegemen to share each knightly game,
Would wield the fence of the buckler and hurl the lance afar:
No lack had they of companions in the merry mimic war.
And ever in the feast-hall that kingly host took heed
That his guests should be served of the choicest, that no least word should proceed
Of blame from the lips of any, such as smircheth the name of a king;
And aye mid his guests was he passing with gracious welcoming.
And he spake in the midst: “Ye good knights, or ever ye ride from my land,
Accept ye the gifts of my giving, for so doth mine heart’s wish stand,
And to you will I aye be beholden: then think not scorn thereof,