lf sat. And they hasted and poured out mead, morat, and wine, for
the guests, in great golden goblets, and bade the strangers heartily
welcome.

Then said King Etzel, "I tell you truly that nothing in this world had
pleased me better than to see you knights here. It will ease the queen
of mickle heart's dole. I marvelled oft what I had done, that, among the
many guests I won to my court, ye never came to my land. Glad am I to
see you now."

Whereto Rudeger, the high-hearted knight, answered, "Thou rejoicest with
cause, for my mistress's kinsmen are men of proven worth, and they bring
many valiant knights with them."

It was on a midsummer eve that they came to Etzel's court, and seldom
hath been heard such high greeting as he gave to the heroes. Then he
went merrily to table with them, and no host ever entreated guests
better. Meat and drink they had in plenty. All that they desired stood
ready for them, for many marvels had been told of them.

The rich king had built a great castle at much cost and trouble--palaces,
and towers, and chambers without number, in a big fortress, and
thereto a goodly hall. He had ordered it to be built long and high and
wide, by reason of the many knights that flocked to his court without
cease. Twelve great kings were his liegemen, and many warriors of much
worship he had always by him, more than any king I ever heard of. He
lived merrily with kinsmen and vassals round him, with the joyful tumult
of good knights on every side. By reason whereof his heart was uplifted.

Thirtieth Adventure

How Hagen and Folker Kept Watch

The day was now ended and the night drew nigh. The way-weary warriors
were fain to rest, and lie down on their beds, but knew not how to
compass it. Hagen asked, and brought them word.

Gunther said to the host, "God have thee in His keeping. Give us leave
to go and sleep. If thou desire it, we will come again early in the
morning." Then Etzel parted merrily from his guests.

From all sides the folk pressed in on the strangers. Bold Folker said to
the Huns, "How dare ye get before our feet? If ye void not the way, it
will be the worse for you. I will give some of you a blow with this
fiddle that may cause your friends to weep. Fall back from us warriors.
Certes, ye had better. Ye be knights in name and naught else."

While the fiddler spake thus wrothfully, bold Hagen looked over his
shoulder and said, "The minstrel giveth you good coun