The King was eager to depart, nor did Brunhild gainsay him, but leaving her uncle to rule over Iceland in her stead, she took leave of her people and sailed away with Günther to Burgundy. And with her from their native land Went many a damsel fair. No longer might they seek delay Their sovereign’s lot to share. With bitter tears, farewells they spoke; They hasten to the strand, For nevermore shall they return Unto the fatherland. The sails are spread, a favoring gale Soon speeds them on their track; Of joyous sports to pass the time In truth was there no lack. Yet when bold Iceland’s rocky shores Had passed from sight at last, What sorrow fills each maiden breast! Their tears fall thick and fast. _Chapter XI_ _The Welcome_ When they had come once more to land, Siegfried rode on before to proclaim the glad tidings, for much he craved sight of Kriemhild, nor was the maiden’s joy less when she again beheld the gallant hero for whose fate she so long had trembled. As a token of her happiness at his safe return she gave him four-and-twenty golden armlets, set with precious stones, to be divided among his bravest followers. There was great stir in Worms to prepare for the home-coming of Günther and his bride. The spacious hall was magnificently decorated and set with long tables and benches, for all the lords and knights of the realm were bidden to the feast, while the whole court made ready to go forth to meet the returning company. At the head of the long train rode Kriemhild with her mother, mounted on noble steeds; and after them a hundred ladies of the court, all on white palfreys, richly caparisoned, their bridles gleaming with gold. Each horse was led by a man-at-arms, bearing lance and shield, while the robes of Kriemhild and her women sparkled with gold and jewels. Behind them rode a troop of armed knights. Soon the two trains met, and joyous greetings followed. Then did the Lady Kriemhild Advance with modest mien To where with her attendant maids Stood Günther’s beauteous Queen; Deft hands unbinding head gear, Fresh charms thereby disclose, And when the twain with love embraced, What shouts of joy arose! Then spake in courtly fashion, Kriemhild, the maiden fair: “Right cordially we welcome thee; Our joy the people share. For sure your coming to our court Good will with gladness blends!” “I thank your courtesy,”--replies Brunhild, and toward her bends. Gladly the knights beheld the greetings of the two princesses, and much debate was there as to which was the fairer; but those best versed in womanly beauty declared themselves in favor of Kriemhild.