LXI

Forthwith for many a champion, who thence would soon away,
Prepar'd were shields and saddles and all the proud array
That to the land of Etzel each was with him to bring;
Meanwhile Queen Kriemhild's envoys were call'd before the king.

LXII

Then thus began Sir Gernot to th' envoys there in place,
"The king will do the bidding of royal Etzel's grace.
Fain will we seek his festal, which it were ill to miss,
And see once more our sister; she may depend on this."

[LXIII]

Then spake to them King Gunther, "Could you to us declare
The time of this high festal, and when we should be there
With all our following present?" then Swemmeline made reply,
"For the next midsummer is fix'd the festal high."

LXIV

The king then gave permission, not granted till that hour,
If they wish'd to visit Dame Brunhild in her bower,
With his free allowance thither at once to go,
Then interpos'd Sir Folker (the queen would have it so).

LXV

"Just now my Lady Brunhild is not so well of cheer,"
Said the good knight, "that strangers before her can appear.
Wait until to-morrow; then you the queen may see."
Much wish'd they to behold her, yet never could it be.