A veil of glittering samite its varied hues conceal'd;
Never had the daylight shone on a better shield.
With precious stones far-beaming 'twas richly deck'd all o'er.
It could not have been purchas'd for a thousand marks or more.
LIV
So by command of Hagan the shield away was ta'en.
Then came to court Sir Dankwart among the parting train.
To him gave Rudeger's daughter robes richly broider'd o'er,
Which 'midst the Huns thereafter in joyous mood he wore.
LV
Of all the gifts that morning bestow'd on every guest,
Not one by those Burgundians had ever been possess'd,
But by the margrave's bounty, which so by proof they knew.
Soon they became such foemen, that they the giver slew.
LVI
And now the valiant Folker with high-bred courtly grace
Stepp'd forth before Dame Gotelind, and, standing there in place,
His sweetest tones attemper'd and sang his choicest lay,
Ere he from Bechlaren took leave and went his way.
LVII
With that the gentle hostess bade bring a casket near
(Of friendly gifts and bounty and kindness you must hear);
From this she took twelve bracelets, and drew them o'er his hand;
"These you must take, and with you bear hence to Etzel's land,
LVIII