XXXII
'Twas on the seventh fair morning that from Bechlaren rode
The host and his companions; they through Bavaria yode
With store of arms and raiment, yet such was their array,
That robbers rarely ventur'd to assail them on their way.
XXXIII
Within twelve days of journey by Rhine they drew the rein.
The news of their arrival no secret could remain.
To the king and his liegemen at once the tidings ran,
That come were certain strangers; the host to ask began,
XXXIV
If they were known to any; who knew, should say so straight
'Twas seen their sturdy sumpters bore many a heavy weight;
So, that they were wealthy, each took at once for known.
Forthwith were they to chambers in the wide city shown.
XXXV
Since no man knew the strangers who to the land were come,
Narrowly was each chieftain observ'd by all and some.
They wonder'd wherefore came they, and from what distant coast.
The same of stout Sir Hagan inquir'd the anxious host.
XXXVI