How Siegfried was Betrayed
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Upon the fourth morning two and thirty men
Saw ye to court a-riding. Unto King Gunther then
Were tidings borne that ready he should make for foe—
This lie did bring to women many, anon full grievous woe.
Leave had they 'fore the monarch's presence to appear,
There to give themselves out for men of Luedeger,
Him erstwhile was conquered by Siegfried's doughty hand
And brought a royal hostage bound unto King Gunther's land.
The messengers he greeted and to seat them gave command.
Then spake one amongst them: "Allow that yet we stand
Until we tell the tidings that to thee are sent.
Know thou that warriors many on thee to wreak their hate are bent.
"Defiance bids thee Luedegast and eke Luedeger
Who at thy hands full sorely erstwhile aggrievéd
