High-mettled were their chargers, gold-bright their riding weed, None ever rode more proudly (little were there need) Than then did noble Siegfried, and that fair company That with him leave were taking, all bound for Burgundy. XXVI The king and queen, each weeping, gave him leave to part, And he to both gave comfort all with a loving heart. "Weep not," said he, "dear parents, of better courage be, I'm safe where'er I travel, so take no thought for me." XXVII Ah! woe were then the warriors, and wept, too, many a maid, Their hearts, I ween, the future in deepest gloom array'd, And told them from that journey many a dear friend would bleed. Full cause had they for sorrow, it brought them woe indeed. XXVIII On the seventh fair morning by Worms along the strand In knightly guise were pricking the death-defying band. The ruddy gold fair glitter'd on every riding vest; Their steeds they meetly govern'd, all pacing soft abreast. XXIX Their shields were new and massy and like flame they glow'd, As bright too shone their helmets, while bold Siegfried rode Straight to the court of Gunther to woo the stately maid; Eye never look'd on champions so gorgeously array'd. XXX Down to their spurs loud clanging reach'd the swords they wore; Sharp and well temper'd lances the chosen champions bore. One, two spans broad or better, did Siegfried sternly shake, With keen and cutting edges grim and ghastly wounds to make. XXXI Their golden-color'd bridles firm they held in hand; Silken were their pöitrels; so rode they through the land. On all sides the people to gaze on them began; Then many of Gunther's liegemen swift to meet them ran. XXXII Many a haughty warrior, stout squire, and hardy knight, Went to receive the strangers as fitting was and right, And, as to guests high honor'd, did courteous service yield, Their steeds held as they lighted, and took from each his shield. XXXIII They were in act the chargers to lead away to stall, When the redoubted Siegfried quick to them did call, "Nay, leave us here the horses, we look not long to stay, Anon with my companions I shall wend upon my way. XXXIV "Affairs of high concernment this squadron hither bring, So, whoso knows, straight tell me where I may find your king, The wide-renowned Gunther, who reigns in Burgundy." Then one who near was standing thus answer'd courteously, XXXV "If you would find the monarch, you need not long to wait; In yonder hall at leisure myself I left him late Begirt with all his warriors; there you may feast your sight: In sooth you'll find about him full many a stately knight." XXXVI