Across the court he sped it, putting his might to the cast,
That it flew o’er their heads fierce-singing; and Etzel’s men were aghast,
As he warned them to safer standing, from the hall-door far away.
At his matchless might all people were thrilled with sore dismay.
Before that hall with Etzel in thousands the Hunfolk stood.
And now did Volker and Hagen in scornful-reckless mood
Set them to gall the Hun-king, and with bitter taunts to defy.
Ere long grim retribution on the heroes came thereby.
“It were well,” cried Hagen, “to hearten the folk in the evil day,
That the lords of the land should battle in the forefront of the fray,