THE LAY OF FAFNIR
self also. Sigmund was my father named, my name is Sigurd, who with weapon have assailed thee.
Fafnir.
5. Who has incited thee? why hast thou suffered thyself to be incited to take my life? youth of the sparkling eyes! Thou hadst a cruel father— * * * *
Sigurd.
6. My heart incited me, my hands gave me aid, and my keen sword. Rarely a man is bold, when of mature age, if in childhood he was faint-hearted.
Fafnir.
7. I know if thou hadst chanced to grow in the lap of friends, they would have seen thee fierce in fight. Now thou art a captive, taken in war, and, 'tis said, slaves ever tremble.
Sigurd.
8. Why Fafnir! dost thou upbraid me that I am far from my paternal home? I am not a captive, although in war I was taken: thou hast found that I am free.
Fafnir.
9. Thou wilt account only as angry words all I to thee shall say, but I will say the truth. The jingling gold, and the gleed-red treasure, those rings, shall be thy bane.
Sigurd.
10. Treasure at command every one desires, ever till that one day; for at some time each mortal shall hence to Hel depart.
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