Whoso would keep life scatheless, betimes let him see to the same!

I mark how under their vesture glittering hauberks they wear:

What deed thereby they purpose I know not, neither care.”

Made answer in scornful anger Hagen the aweless man:

“Well know I, for my destruction is all their plot and plan;

And for this are the gleaming weapons that yon men bear in hand.

But for all they may do, shall I yet ride back into Burgundy-land.

Now tell unto me, friend Volker, by me art thou minded to stand

If these be fain to beset me, yon men of Kriemhild’s band?

Lo, by thy love I adjure thee, tell me thy mind herein,