Alfaleith.org

"It becomes thee, Hero Ingo, to regard danger little; thou knowest, indeed, that boldness sometimes prospers best with a man. But if thou accept the King's invitation, as thou wilt, thou shouldst never go as a single wanderer. To the King and his retinue thou wouldst be contemptible, and unworthy would be thy treatment, even if the King should not attempt thy life. For at kings' courts it is the style alone that gives distinction to a Hero --- his stately dresses, horses, and retinue. Therefore before thou goest to the King thou must obtain all these. But if these forest men follow thee, thou wilt be hateful to the King."

"Thou speakest well, Volkmar, in all respects," replied Ingo. "If thou wilt venture back under the eyes of the King, tell him that I am thankful for his royal message, and that I will appear before him as soon as I am equipped as his and may honor demand."

"I will bear the answer," answered Volkmar; "and I hope to be able to spring nimbly aside when he throws his drinking-cup at me."

Though Answald gave his assent, he was secretly annoyed at the demand of the King, but manfully concealed his anxiety.

When Ingo and Volkmar were alone, Ingo began:

"He who has given one piece of good advice, may possibly give a second. Thou seest that I am like a child that has been caught out of the water, and placed newly in the world. Here the people are kind-hearted, but they seldom make warlike expeditions. Look about, thou faithful comrade, and find out where there is respectable work for a good sword."

"Wait only a little," answered Volkmar, laughing; "and meanwhile take pleasure in hearing the noble maid, Irmgard, sing my dance before thee, for she is well practised in song and in my instrument. If I hear of any honorable campaign, thou shalt learn it; but thou knowest that in autumn home entices the warrior; the spring is the time for warlike excursions."

"And now hear further," continued Ingo, "a thought that has come across me as I lay sleepless in the night. The leap into the Rhine separated me from my men; the Roman band dispersed in pursuit of me like a rush of water over a country; the Priestess concealed me with care till she sent me northward; at my departure she promised to seek my comrades who had stood by me at the boat. Lately I have heard from a traveling juggler, that some warriors of my people have during this month encamped among the Burgundians; one of them, it seems to me, is Berthar, who thou knowest. "If thou hast a kindly feeling for me, Volkmar, inquire, when thou canst, concerning my trusty friend; for, however well disposed to me many are who here live around me, I can not be happy till I know whether any of my comrades have escaped the weapons of the Romans."

The minstrel nodded, and turned to depart. "The master of this house feels kindly toward thee; but the minds of men are changeable, and may soon become weary of a man who stands alone. Thou hast honored me with thy confidence, as thou before saidst when thou didst raise me out of the water. Therefore I beg of thee a favor. Once thou gavest me this gold ring; take it back now, Oh, my lord, that I may show thee my truth; thou wilt bestow far more on me later, if the gods send thee good fortune. The ring will procure thee a horse and dress, or gain thee a helpful companion."

<< Previous Page | Back | Next Page >>