How they fared to the Feast
Leave we now the ardor wherewith they did prepare,
And tell how Lady Kriemhild and eke her maidens fair
From land of Nibelungen did journey to the Rhine.
Ne'er did horses carry such store of raiment rich and fine.
Carrying-chests full many for the way they made ready.
Then rode the thane Siegfried with his friends in company
And eke the queen thither where joy they looked to find.
Where now was high rejoicing they soon in sorest grief repined.
At home behind them left they Lady Kriemhild's son
That she did bear to Siegfried —'twas meet that that be done.
From this their festive journey rose mickle sorrow sore:
His father and his mother their child beheld they never more.
Then eke with them thither Siegmund the king did ride.
Had he e'er had knowled
