XXXV
So great was then the pastime when front to front they met,
That through the reeking foot-cloths forth burst the frothy sweat
From the high-mettled coursers which the good knights bestrode,
As 'gainst the lords of Hungary in haughty wise they rode.
XXXVI
Then spake the noble minstrel Folker with scornful glance,
"These knights, methinks, will never confront us lance to lance.
I hear it loudly rumor'd they bear us mortal spite;
Surely can they never find better time to fight.
XXXVII
"So let us to our quarters," the fearless warrior cried,
"Send hence our weary horses; back we can hither ride,
If there be time, toward evening; 'twere fitter then than now;
What if to us Burgundians the queen should praise allow?"
XXXVIII
Just then there rode so proudly into the lists a Hun,
That so no knight among them the general gaze had won.
Perchance e'en then in secret for some fair maid he sigh'd.
He wore as rich apparel as any noble bride.
XXXIX