For she feared she should see no mistress like her of the days of yore.
Ever she thought on Helka, and her heart within her was sore.
Seven days had passed, and the Margrave rode from the land of the Hun.
Greatly rejoiced King Etzel that his hest so swiftly was done.
In the city Vienna already was prepared their festal array,
And from setting forth on his journey would the knight no longer delay.
Gotlind his wife in Bechlaren for his coming eagerly stayed;
And the Margravine, Rüdiger’s daughter, a young and winsome maid,
Was fain to behold her father and them of his vassal-throng.
Sooth, that was a loving waiting of ladies fair and young.