Now, it was in the King’s mind to celebrate the victory by a great festival, but his brother Gernot counselled him to delay yet awhile, till the wounds of the prisoners should be healed, so the time was fixed for six weeks thence. So Siegfried took his leave for that space and rode back to Santen, for he greatly longed to see his parents. At last the six weeks were past and the festival was held with great splendor and rejoicing. The King, as a surprise to Siegfried, whose attachment for Kriemhild was well known to him, had bidden the ladies of the court to grace the festival with their presence. Accordingly, when the lords and knights had all assembled, making a glittering array of shining armor and gorgeous apparel, the train of damsels entered the hall; whereupon there arose a great pushing and crowding, so desirous were all to behold the beautiful Kriemhild. At last she came, walking at her mother’s side and followed by richly dressed and bejewelled damsels and a hundred chosen knights. When Siegfried’s eyes fell upon her it was as if the light of morning had broken through the clouds. Full many a gem on her attire Cast dazzling rays of light, And on her rose and lily cheek The glow of love was bright. Whatever minstrel’s mind might wish, He must admit, I ween, That on the earth there never yet Was such pure beauty seen. Like as the silver tinting-moon Bedims the starry crowds, When, with its clear and gentle light It breaks through murky clouds, E’en so, in truth, did she outshine The best of womankind! Such beauteous vision well might raise Each hero’s heart and mind. Then Gernot said to the King: “Never yet hath our sister Kriemhild paid greeting to a hero. Methinks it were well she should now welcome Siegfried, for such an honor perchance may bind him to us henceforth.” These words pleased Günther, and he forthwith sent a message to Siegfried, bidding him approach and receive his sister’s thanks. Now, when Kriemhild saw the splendid young hero standing before her, her cheeks grew red as the dawn, but with a gracious gesture she gave him her hand and said: “Thrice welcome, my lord Siegfried! Thy praises wide resound, For by thy might were victory And peace and glory found. Brave heroes do thee honor; The people’s love is thine; Far more hast thou bestowed on them Than gold or jewels fine. Our tottering throne hast thou upheld And aided by thy deed; Now may our country’s warmest thanks And blessings be thy meed!” They looked into each other’s eyes, and therewith a great love sprang up in their hearts, and they knew that never henceforth could they live apart. Then indeed Siegfried’s heart beat high with joy.