Than thy lord, my brother Gunther, be he never so noble a king.

Thou therefore shalt spare me the hearing of thy fond imagining.

Yea, needs must I marvel ever, if he be thy vassal-thane,

And thou be exalted so highly in worship above us twain,

Wherefore so long all tribute to thee hath of him been denied!

Of right I demand to be pestered no more with thine arrogant pride.”

“Too high dost thou exalt thee,” Queen Brunhild made reply:

“Now will I prove of a surety if folk account thee as high

In royal esteem and honour as they hold the Queen, even me!”

By this was the two Queens’ anger kindled unquenchably.