But the champions of the Rhineland their onset proudly abode;

And they clashed with the knights Thuringian in the hero-sport of spears:

Full many a goodly shield-rim did the lightening lances pierce.

Then came the good knight Blödel, and followed him thousands three.

Etzel the King and Kriemhild watched full eagerly

The meeting of charging squadrons, the gallant glorious fray:

But in fierce joy Kriemhild waited till her hate should have its way.

(C) On a vision she dreamed, the fulfilment whereof ere long was seen—

“If haply any be wounded, then, ah then, I ween,

This sport may grow into earnest: then over my scornful foe