[1242]

When all from thence were parted / and had their lodgings sought,
Then bade the noble lady / that Giselher be brought,
And eke with him her mother. / To both she then did tell
That meet for her was weeping, / and naught might fit her mood so well.

[1243]

Then spake her brother Giselher: / "Sister, to me 'tis told—
And well may I believe it— / that thy grief manifold
Etzel complete will scatter, / an tak'st thou him for man.
Whate'er be other's counsel, / meseems it were a thing well done."

[1244]

Further eke spake Giselher: / "Console thee well may he.
From Rhone unto Rhine river, / from Elbe unto the sea,
King there is none other / that holds so lordly sway.
An he for spouse do take thee, / gladden thee full well he may."

[1245]

"Brother loved full dearly, / wherefore dost counsel it?
To mourn and weep forever / doth better me befit.
How may I 'mid warriors / appear in royal state?
Was ever fair my body, / of beauty now 'tis desolate."

[1246]

Then spake the Lady Ute / her daughter dear unto:
"The thing thy brother counsels, / my loving child, that do.
By thy friends be guided, / then with thee well 'twill be.
Long time it now hath grieved me / thee thus disconsolate to see."