How the Margrave Ruediger was Slain
At morning light the strangers had wrought high deed of fame,
When the spouse of Gotelinde unto the courtyard came.
To behold on both sides such woe befallen there,
Might not refrain from weeping sorely the faithful Ruediger.
"O woe is me!" exclaimed he, "that ever I was born.
Alack that this great sorrow no hand from us may turn!
Though I be ne'er so willing, the king no peace will know,
For he beholds his sorrow ever great and greater grow."
Then did the kindly Ruediger unto Dietrich send,
If to the lofty monarchs they yet might truce extend.
The knight of Bern gave message: "How might such thing be?
For ne'er the royal Etzel granteth to end it peacefully."
When a Hunnish warrior saw standing Ruediger
As from eyes sore weeping fell full
