How Siegfried was slain
––––––––
Gunther and Hagen, the knights full keen,
Proposed with evil forethought a hunting in the green:
The boar within the forest they'd chase with pointed spear,
And shaggy bear and bison. —What sport to valiant men more dear?
With them rode also Siegfried happy and light of heart:
Their load of rich refreshments was made in goodly part.
Where a spring ran cooling they took from him his life,
Whereto in chief had urged them Brunhild, royal Gunther's wife.
Then went the valiant Siegfried where he Kriemhild found;
Rich hunting-dress was laden and now stood ready bound
For him and his companions across the Rhine to go.
Than this a sadder hour nevermore could Kriemhild know.
The spouse he loved so dearly upon the mouth he kissed.
"God grant that well
