The sea-monarch bowed respectfully to Gabrielle; then begged that some one would point out to him the wonderful champion, who had not only resisted but overpowered the hitherto invincible Sir Folko. Thereupon, when the youthful blooming Otto von Trautwangen was introduced to him, he looked at the conqueror with such astonishment, that the latter began to feel offended, and was about to speak; but the brave Arinbiorn at length greeted him respectfully, and said,--“If there has been here neither stratagem, nor witchcraft,--and of your honour I cannot doubt,--then, good Heaven! what may not be looked for from one who, in earliest youth, has contended as you have done!” Again he bowed with courteous gravity; and Gabrielle, blushing with joy and triumph, laid her snow-white hand in that of Sir Otto, bent down her head, with its rich braided tresses, before him, and pronounced the solemn words, “I am the betrothed bride of the noble warrior, Sir Otto von Trautwangen!” Then the music sounded aloud; all the guests shouted and rejoiced; there was a jovial ringing of golden cups, and Otto, saluting his beautiful bride, saw, as it were, heaven itself, in the deep azure of her gleaming eyes. “Take also my blessing, dearest Otto,” said a voice which arose mild and gentle as the notes of a flute behind him. “Heaven knows I am heartily glad to have found you so happy!” Looking round he beheld the well-known lovely features of his cousin Bertha, kind and cheerful in their expression, though pale indeed as the moonlight that wont to shine in the stilly chambers of the Lady Minnatrost. At some distance, however, like a dark thunder-cloud, appeared the frowning visage, furrowed by many a scar, of Sir Heerdegen of Lichtenried. “So then all has been but a dream,” said Sir Otto, passing his hand across his eyes, as if to banish the painful visions that confused him, while Sir Heerdegen came forward and seemed about to speak. Bertha, however, placed herself between her cousin and his bride, joined their hands firmly together, and uttered her congratulations and wishes for their long life and happiness so eloquently, and in tones so musical, that she seemed almost like an angel sent from Heaven to bless their union. The dark clouds even vanished from the brow of Sir Heerdegen as he listened to her words; and king Arinbiorn said, “Truly I had taken this damsel and her brother prisoners, having honourably won them as the prize of a single combat on the coast of East Friesland, and I had designed that they should be brought home as trophies to my native land of Norway. There too I would have been to them as an elder brother, for so we have hitherto lived together. But now, methinks, in honour of this festival, I shall set them at liberty; for I know well that the young champion whom we are met to congratulate will rejoice therein.” The hall now resounded with new and yet louder acclamations. Gabrielle,