VII
When to his home the margrave saw the Burgundians come,
Exulting thus bespoke he the strangers all and some,
"Welcome, ye lords! right welcome, you and your vassals too.
Here in my land full gladly I see such friends as you."
VIII
The brethren to his greeting their stately heads inclin'd,
To the loving love returning, and kindness to the kind.
Apart he greeted Hagan, whom he had known of old;
The same did he to Folker the minstrel blithe and bold.
IX
Last welcom'd he Sir Dankwart, who thus his host bespake,
"Since you will give us shelter, pray who in charge will take
The train we have brought hither, all in such weary plight?"
Then answer'd him the margrave, "Well will you rest to-night.
X
"My people shall keep safely all you have hither brought,
Silver and steeds and raiment; you need not think of aught.
Be sure, I'll take such order, that loss shall none occur.
You'll not miss all among you as much as half a spur.
XI
"So pitch your tents, ye yeomen, in the field apace;
Whatever here is missing, I'll willingly replace;
Off with bit and saddle—turn loose your weary steeds."
Such a host had rarely supplied the wanderer's needs.