Then saw the men of Blödel how their good lord lay slain,
And their hands from the guests Burgundian no longer would they refrain.
With swords for the onset uplifted they rushed in furious mood
On the squires—but this their emprise ere long full many rued.
With a great voice then to his henchmen all did Dankwart cry:
“Ye see well, squires brave-hearted, they have doomed us all to die!
Now, homeless men, defend you, for sore is your need, I ween,
—So then for this were we bidden guests of a gracious queen!”
Then, whoso were swordless, ’twixt table and seat good weapons they found,
For many a massy footstool swung they up from the ground.