At Worms through all the city rang the mirthsome shout Of the rejoicing followers; Gunther the noisy rout Commended to his marshal, and bade him treat them fair; Dankwart sought out good quarters and fitly lodg'd them there. XXIV Without, within, was feasting; unbounded was the store. Sure stranger guests were never treated so well before. It only needed asking, and all was straight supplied; So rich a king was Gunther that nothing was denied. XXV With friendly zeal they serv'd them, with hearts devoid of hate; Amidst his guests at table the host exulting sate. To sit was bidden Siegfried where he of yore had done. With him strode to the banquet proud warriors many a one. XXVI Twelve hundred stalwart champions in circle there were seen With him at table sitting; Brunhild, the watchful queen, Thought to herself, no vassal could ever wealthier be. Still him she so far favor'd, that from harm she left him free. XXVII All that feastful evening, as sat the king to dine, Store of the richest vesture was wetted by the wine, That in hasty hurry the butlers ever pour'd. Sore toil'd they in their service at that o'ercrowded board. XXVIII Then, as is still the custom at each well-order'd feast, To rest the dames and damsels were in good time releas'd. All guests with gifts and honors, from whenceso'er they came, The noble host entreated as well beseem'd his fame. XXIX When now the night was over, and reappear'd the dawn, By the fair hands of ladies was many a jewel drawn, Sparkling in goodly raiment, from many a travelling chest, And out was sought and hurried many a lordly vest. XXX Ere 'twas full day, came flocking the palace hall around Knights and squires in plenty; then arose the sound Of matins sung to Gunther, and, when this was done, So well rode youthful warriors, that the king's thanks they won. XXXI Shrill fifes and loud-voic'd clarions and blaring trumpet-clang Mix'd with the shouts of thousands, that all the city rang, And through the startled welkin th' alarum spread around. Proud knights on strong-hoof'd chargers rode thund'ring o'er the ground. XXXII At once without the city a tourney they began. There his career exulting many a young warrior ran, Whom his fresh boiling courage impell'd to honor's field. Many a knight of prowess was there seen under shield. XXXIII Many a stately matron and many a smiling maid Sat at the castle windows in costly robes array'd, And look'd on while the warriors display'd their skill and force; The good host with his comrades himself would run a course. XXXIV The time seem'd not to linger, so merrily it pass'd. Pealing from the minster they heard the bells at last. Then up were led the palfreys; forth rode each lady bright; The noble queens were follow'd by many a valiant knight.