No guests were welcomed ever, I ween, so lovingly.
Unto hand-clasp and embracing the wives of the two Kings came.
Now fast were the saddles emptied, for many a comely dame
By heroes’ hands down-holpen, stood on the meadow-green.
Who joyed in the service of ladies, had work enow, I ween.
To meet and to greet each other those winsome ladies stept,
And for joy of their lovely presence full many a knight’s heart leapt,
And for joy of the gracious greeting of the glory of either land;
For beside those comely maidens did many a good knight stand.
Then did the hands kind-clasping each unto other cling: