And they brought out the good steeds saddled for the Niblung warrior-band.
So soon as they all were mounted, the Princes and their men,
Volker the fearless captain gave them his counsel then
After their own land’s fashion to close in the wild mellay.
Then into the lists the heroes rode in gallant array.
That which the minstrel counselled, was none that against it spake.
Then in the lists did the clashing and clanging of arms awake.
Into the spacious tilt-yard thronged many a thane to the strife:
And high over all sat gazing King Etzel and his wife.
Unto the place of the tourney six hundred warriors came—