queen in the world are yours; for
you will have proved that you are at least the equal of the hero whom
she seeks. What reply shall I carry back to Isenland?"

King Gunther answered hastily, and as one dazed and in a dream, "Say
that I accept the challenge, and that when the spring-time comes again,
and the waters in the river are unlocked, I shall go to Isenland, and
match my skill and strength with that of the fair and mighty Brunhild."

All who stood around were greatly astonished at Gunther's reply; for,
although his mind was somewhat weak, he was not given to rash and
hazardous undertakings. And Siegfried, who was at his side, whispered,
"Think twice, friend Gunther, ere you decide. You do not know the
strength of this mighty but lovely warrior-maiden. Were your strength
four times what it is, you could not hope to excel her in those feats.
Give up this hasty plan, I pray you, and recall your answer to the
challenge. Think no more of such an undertaking, for it surely will cost
you your life."

But these warnings, and the words of others who tried to dissuade him,
only made Gunther the more determined; and he vowed that nothing should
hinder him from undertaking the adventure. Then the dark-browed Hagen
said,--

"Our friend Siegfried seems to know much about Isenland and its
maiden-queen. And indeed, if there is any truth in hearsay, he has had
the best of means for learning. Now, if our good King Gunther has set
his mind on going upon this dangerous enterprise, mayhap Siegfried would
be willing to bear him company."

Gunther was pleased with Hagen's words; and he said to Siegfried, "My
best of friends, go with me to Isenland, and help me. If we do well in
our undertaking, ask of me any reward you wish, and I will give it you,
so far as in my power lies."

"You know, kind Gunther," answered Siegfried, "that for myself I have
no fear; and yet again I would warn you to shun the unknown dangers with
which this enterprise is fraught. But if, after all, your heart is set
upon it, make ready to start as soon as the warm winds shall have melted
the ice from the river. I will go with you."

The king grasped Siegfried's hand, and thanked him heartily.

"We must build a fleet," said he. "A thousand fighting-men shall go with
us, and we will land in Isenland with a retinue such as no other prince
has had. A number of stanch vessels shall be built at once, and in the
early spring they shall be launched upon the Rhine