Then Eckwart, Lord of the Marches, drew nigh, and thus spake he:
“Since the day when I was appointed to wait, O Queen, upon thee,
Faithfully and truly have I served thee,” said that thane;
“Now also to my life’s ending in my fealty will I remain.
Good knights withal five hundred of mine own will I take with me,
And I tender to thee their service in faith and fealty.
We will ever abide unsundered, except death make an end.”
Low bowed her Kriemhild, and thanked him, that loving and loyal friend.
Then led they out the horses, since forth of the land they must fare.
Then brake forth bitter weeping of dear friends gathered there.