along the hem--"

"Hush," whispered Hilda, smiling, "he must not know it."

"Who?"

"Why, the pious King. Alas, we shall never understand and agree with
each other!"

"Why must he know nothing about it?"

"They are the ancient runes of victory of our people. My ancestor
Hildebrand taught them to me. And who can tell whether they may not
help?"

As she spoke, she passed her hand over her work with a tender,
caressing motion, humming softly,--

"Revered and ancient
Runes so glorious,
Magical symbols
Of victory's bliss,
Float ye and sway
With the fluttering banner
High o'er our heads!
Summon the swift,
Lovely, and gracious
Maids, brave and bold,
Hovering swan-like
Our heads far above!
Givers of victory,
Radiant sisterhood,
Fetter the foe,
Stay their proud columns,
Weaken their sword-strokes,
Shiver their spears,
Break their firm shields,
Shatter their breastplates,
Hew off their helmets!--
Unto our warriors
Victory send ye;
Joyous pursuit,
Speeding on swift steeds,
Shouting in glee,
After the flying
Ranks of the vanquished!"

"There! The ancient rune has often helped the Amalungi; why should it
not aid the Asdings? Aha! Now let the dragon fly again. He has
moulted," she added, laughing merrily; "now his wings have grown new."

Springing to her feet, she raised the long heavy shaft, terminating in
a sharp point, to which the square scarlet cloth was fastened with
gold-headed nails, and with both hands she waved the banner joyously
around her head. It was a beautiful picture: Gibamund and many of the
warriors below saw the floating banner and the lovely woman's head
surrounded by her flowing golden hair.

"Hail, Hilda, hail!" rose in an echoing shout.

Startled, the young wife sank on her knees to escape their eyes. Yet
she had heard _his_ voice, so she smiled, happy in her embarrassment,
and charming in her confusion.

Eugenia, doubtless, felt the winsome spell, for, suddenly slipping down
beside the Princess, she covered her hands and beautiful round white
arms with ardent kisses. "Oh, lady, why are you so glorious? I often
look up to you with fear. When your eyes