Therefore instead of roses take ye weapons in hand,
And instead of caps bejewelled your helmets gleaming bright,
Forasmuch as we have full warning of wicked Kriemhild’s spite.
This day for our lives must we battle: this unto you I say.
Instead of silken tunics ye must wear steel hauberks to-day;
And instead of costly mantles must bear shields massy and broad,
That if any rage against you ye may nowise be overawed.
My well-belovèd masters, kinsmen and liegemen mine,
With hearts of sincere repentance draw nigh to the holy shrine,
And lay before God Almighty your burden of need and fear;