THE ELDER EDDA OF SAEMUND
himself, and Hugin gladden. There I expect the wolf, where his ears I see.
Fifth eagle.
36. Not so prudent is that tree of battle, as I that martial leader had supposed, if he one brother lets depart, now he the other has of life bereft.
Sixth eagle.
37. He is most simple, if he longer spares that people's pest. There lies Regin, who has betrayed him.—He cannot guard against it.
Seventh eagle.
38. By the head shorter let him make the ice-cold Jotun, and of his rings deprive him; then of that treasure thou,[1] which Fafnir owned, sole lord wilt be!
Sigurd.
39. Fate shall not so resistless be, that Regin shall my death-word bear; for the brothers both shall speedily go hence to Hel.
Sigurd cut off the head of Regin, and then ate Fafnir's heart, and drank the blood of both Regin and Fafnir. He then heard the eagles saying:
40. Bind thou, Sigurd! the red-gold rings. It is not kingly many things to fear. I a maid know by far the fairest, with gold adorned. Couldst thou but her obtain!
Second eagle.
41. To Giuki lead all-verdant ways; the fates point
- ↑ i. e., Sigurd; a transition from the 3d person to the 2nd.
178
