XVIII
Upon his single person fell thund'ring sword-strokes rife,
Yet cause gave he for weeping to many a hero's wife.
He rais'd his buckler higher and lower brought the thong.
Blood stream'd beneath his buffets through many a hauberk strong.
XIX
"Woe's me! I'm faint and stifled," the son of Aldrian cried;
"Now, ye knights of Hungary! stand a little wide;
Let the air refresh me—I'm wearied with the fight."
Then manfully among them stepp'd forth the stately knight.
XX
As faint and exhausted from the house he sprang,
What redoubled sword-strokes on his morion rang!
Those, who had not yet witness'd what wonders wrought his hand,
Forward leapt upon him, the knight from Gunther's land.
XXI
"Now would to God," said Dankwart, "a messenger would go
To let my brother Hagan my fearful peril know,
Among this band of traitors how sore beset am I!
He'd come and hence would help me, or by my side would die."
XXII