once more took flight. So swift, however, was Siegfried's
pursuit that ere the heavy beast could elude him he had caught it by
its shaggy coat and had bound it in such a manner that it was harmless;
then, tying it across his horse's back, he brought it to the tryst-fire
for pastime.

Proudly emerged Siegfried from the forest, and Gunther's men, seeing
him coming, ran to hold his horse. When he had dismounted he dragged
the bear from his horse's back and set it loose. Immediately the dogs
pursued it, and in its efforts to escape into the forest it dashed madly
through a band of scullions who were cooking by the great fire. There
was a clatter of iron pots, and burning brands were strewed about. Many
goodly dishes were spoiled. The King gave order to slip the hounds that
were on leash. Taking their bows and spears, the warriors set off
in chase of the bear--but they feared to shoot at it through fear of
wounding any among the great pack of dogs that hung upon its flanks. The
one man who could keep pace with the bear was Siegfried, who, coming up
with it, pierced it with his sword and laid it dead on the ground. Then,
lifting the carcass on his shoulders, he carried it back to the fire, to
the marvel of all present.

Then began the feasting. Rich meats were handed around, and all was
festive and gay. No suspicion had Siegfried that he was doomed, for his
heart was pure of all deceit. But the wine had not yet been brought from
the kitchen, whereat Sir Siegfried wondered.

Addressing Gunther, he said: "Why do not your men bring us wine? If this
is the manner in which you treat good hunters, certes, I will hunt no
more. Surely I have deserved better at your hands."

And the false Gunther answered: "Blame me not, Siegfried, for the fault
is Hagen's. Truly he would have us perish of thirst."

"Dear master," said Hagen of Trony, "the fault is mine--if fault it
be--for methought we were to hunt to-day at Spessart and thither did
I send the wine. If we go thirsty to-day, credit me I will have better
care another time."

But Siegfried was athirst and said: "If wine lacks, then must we have
water. We should have camped nearer to the Rhine."

The Slaying of Siegfried

And Hagen, perceiving his chance, replied: "I know of a cool spring
close at hand. If you will follow me I will lead you thither."

Sore athirst was Siegfried, and starting up from his seat, he followed
Hagen. But the crafty schemer, desiring to draw him away