I still am the same—that Hagen who dealt unto Siegfried death,
To the mighty-handed hero. Dearly he paid at last
For the flouts that the Lady Kriemhild upon Brunhild the fair had cast.
Dream not, O Queen most mighty, that I will conceal or deny
That of all the scathe and the mischief done to thee guilty am I.
Let whoso dareth avenge it!—let woman or man essay!
I have heaped thee the measure of sorrow, if I be not a liar this day.”
“Ye hear him, knights! He confesseth all shamelessly,” she cried,
“This crime that was cause of mine anguish! What unto him may betide
In requital for this, I care not, O vassals of Etzel the King!”