The Heroic Life and Exploits of Siegfried, the Dragon Slayer, by Anonymous. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Phil Schempf. The Heroic Life and Exploits of Siegfried, the Dragon Slayer, by Anonymous. First Adventure of King Siegmund and of Heroes, Dwarfs, Giants, and Dragons of Ancient Times. In times of old there lived, in the Low Countries, a king named Siegmund who was mighty in power and rich in honour. His castles were strong and his men at arms were brave. He had swords glancing as the sun and shields of silver-white as the moon.  But his greatest and noblest treasure was a lofty and truly royal mind, for King Siegmund was wise in council, brave in battle, and upright in judgment. He listened willingly to the advice of the wise and aged among his people, and was never displeased even if they spoke with rudeness and reproach. His heart was not set upon wealth or treasures as the majestic sun fills the hill in veil with warmth and light, as the cheerful maid decks the fields and woods with flowers. So from his gentle hand flowed gifts and favours in rich abundance to reward true merit, to honour the deeds of fathers or kindle the heroism of their sons. To every wanderer his kingly hall stood open. To every one he proffered the hand of welcome. He entertained all as became his royal dignity, and at parting he offered to every one a gift and token of remembrance. Thus King Siegmund was famed throughout all Germany and along the Rhine, from north to south. The keen edge of his sword and the glitter of his gold-rotch shield were the theme of heroic song. Far and wide, too, whoever had complaint to make against injustice or oppression, whoever desired to acquire honour and renown, repaired to Xanthe at Königsberg on the Rhine, where Siegmund sat amid his heroes at an iron table. On his right hand was Siegelinda, his beautyous queen and his companion, who shared his happiness, consoled him in adversity, and tended his wounds with her gentle hand. All the people honoured and loved the wise and brave King Siegmund and the gentle and fair Siegelinda. But since the day when they both sat upon the royal throne in honour and splendour on the banks of the Rhine, many generations have descended to that silent and narrow house whence none return. Nor in any of the lands where German songs are sung does there stand any oak so old that it might say, When I was young and in my early vigor many hundred years ago, the noble King Siegmund and his faithful train of followers rode past me to the chase and the battle. For in the time of King Siegmund there still stood in the old primeval forests, broad and high, the ancient thunder oaks of heathen times, which at a much later period were cut down by Bonofaceus, that highly favoured man of God, and his holy companions, when they brought to our forefathers in the dark forests the light of the Christian faith and suffered for this with joyful courage the death of martyrs. Dark and fearful were those ancient forests, as tradition tells, where stood the oaks and the bloodstained altars of the pagan gods in the days of King Siegmund. None dared wander there without his sword at his side and his spear in his hand. The hunter might pursue the beast of prey through the lonely woods and veils for many a day and neither meet a human being nor find a path. The stars of heaven and the course of the waters were his only guides in the vast wilderness. Ravenous wild beasts of enormous strength and fearful nature, such as are now no longer seen, the aurochs and the bear, the lion and the wolf, prowled through the woods and filled the air with their fierce and hungry cries, making the forest re-eckle with their sounds, and when the lofty oaks rustled and the branches cracked and snapped asunder and the winds moaned and whistled in angry sounds from the rocks and caves, it seemed as if the spirit of the storm had come with horse and hound to chase the wild inhabitants of the forests. In the air there dwelt a yet more savage race of birds, who built their nests high upon the rocks and thence descending upon the woods, contested with the wolves their prey, and carried off men and beasts in their talons as food for their young. Poisonous vapours brooded over the vast and bottomless morasses, in which basked serpents and adders as long as trees of every kind and form.  But worst of all, fierce and evil giants were in alliance with this hellish dragon brood. They were a dark and wicked race, who, created before heaven or earth, refused about the knee and set their foot on the necks of weaker mortals, compelling them to do what their impious arrogance required. For their hearts were dark as the woods of old, and wild as the savage animals that dwelt therein. And like the snakes and the dragons in the poisonous swamps, they had grown amid all horrible vices to a fearful size, and mocked at heaven, and thought only of evil. In those sad times the poor dwarves were compelled to suffer most from the wicked giants. These were a people weak and small of stature, but who from time immemorial had handed down among themselves many a tradition of old, and possessed much secret knowledge of the powers of plants and stones. Thus they had become experienced in many mysterious arts, and were rendered cunning, shy, and reserved by the severe oppression they endured. They dwelt chiefly in the deep shafts of mines, and their rot trusty weapons and rich ornaments from the precious metals and brilliant jewels. The giants, however, kept watch over their abodes, and forced them to work night and day.  Then the affrighted dwarves dared no longer venture into the light of day, but hid themselves in the deepest recesses. The cunning dwarves were, therefore, bitter foes of the arrogant giants, and warm friends to the heroes. These were men of the sword, and endowed by heaven with courage and strength to fight against the giants and poison the serpents, to clear the forests and swamps, so that the seed of a milder and more holy doctrine might be sown there. The dwarves often furnished the heroes with sharp swords and stout shields, and taught them many of their arts, that they might gain the victory over their oppressors. This was, therefore, a time of wild strife and combat, and the best treasure which a man could have was an active courage, a stout heart, and a trusty sword. All these, the heroes possessed, and to them belonged the noble race of Siegmund, the king of the Low Countries, famed in ancient song and story. End of the first adventure The second adventure of Siegfried the Dragon Slayer, by Anonymous. This Librivox recording is in the public domain, recording by Phil Shempf. Of Siegfried the Swift, how he grew up to be a hero, and of his throwing the spear. Now King Siegmund, with his consort, the beauteous Siegelinda, had a youthful son, who was fair and strong, and of a lofty spirit. While an infant on his mother's lap, his clear blue eyes, glanced brightly as those of an eagle. And whoever beheld him, could at once perceive that in him, the heroic spirit of his race existed, and that his name would one day be mentioned with honour. He was quick as lightning in all his actions, once they named him Siegfried the Swift. From his childhood he was carefully instructed by the heroes at the round iron table of his sire, in all the duties of a hero. Yet he scarcely required this care, for his own courage impelled him from the earliest dawn of day, to practice every kind of weapon and endure the hardest toils. In the evening he listened with eager curiosity, while the old heroes, grown gray in fights, recounted the adventures that had befallen them in their wanderings in foreign lands, or while they extolled the great names and deeds of ancient times, and taught him maxims befitting a noble and high-minded hero. From his earliest childhood his daring courage spoke forth in all his language and discourse. Siegfried had once gone into the forest, accompanied by one of his venerable tutors in song and war, and two young companions, to hew some trees for the handles of their spears. As evening drew on, the aged man seated himself on a high rock, once he could survey the country round, with its dark forests, its green meadows, and the golden fields of corn. He took one boy after another in turn upon his knee, held him firmly before him, and looked at him sternly, as if about to throw him over the precipice. The two other lads trembled at his angry look, as at a gleam of lightning, but Siegfried gazed on him with a fearless smile and open eye, like a young falcon when looking for the first time at the sun. The old man set him down and was pleased, for he felt that the blood of the ancient heroes flowed in the boy's veins, and that he would one day, in like manner, look with a steady eye upon the flaming swords when they should gleam around him. One of the boys looked at the goats that grazed near them, the other looked up at the wild fruits of the forest, but Siegfried remained seated on the old warrior's knee, playing with the handle of the hero's sword, which his young hands could scarcely lift. Then said one of the boys, as he looked at the wild landscape before him, Now, if I had anything to wish for, it should be that all the valley of the Rhine, from the lofty mountains in the south, to the sea in the north, were one large field of grain, and that I had in every part my farmyards and granaries and barns, so that no king might be richer than I. And I, said the other boy, would wish that the whole veil beneath us were one vast meadow, and that my herds, horses, oxen, and cows were grazing on it in such numbers that no one could count them from morning to night. Siegfried listened, but was silent, until the old man asked him what his wish would be. I should wish for a good sharp sword like thine, exclaimed Siegfried boldly, and I would brandish it like a king upon this high rock, and if foes and giants and dragons should come, I would smite them with the sword, that not one should return home, and so many brave and noble heroes should stand by me, that all your granaries and herds should not suffice us when we partook our meal together, and I would go forth with them and free every country, from east to west, of monsters and oppressors of every kind. Thus spoke Siegfried, and the old man smiled approvingly, for he bethought him that the boy had spoken well. When he returned home, the young king's son could not sleep for thinking how he should one day be a renowned hero like his forefathers, who had worn the crown with honour, and had done mighty and valiant deeds so that their fame was extolled throughout all lands, from the rising to the setting of the sun. Siegfried's masters in warlike exercises took increasing pleasure in the lad, whose eye was keen as his arm was strong, and his feelings noble. None could shoot the eagle as he soared high in the air like him, nor spear the mighty boar with so sure a stroke, yet all were fond of him, for he excelled them all no less in magnanimity and gentleness than in strength of arm. If in their exercises he overthrew one of his companions, he was himself the first to help him up again, and comfort him, so that no one envied him, for none was so generous and noble-hearted as he. Thus the young hero grew up and prospered, and could soon wield his falchion better even than his instructors. No wild beast was there in the woods around, that he would have shrunk from attacking, and no hero drank from the cup of King Siegmund, to whom he would have yielded in fight, although he was as yet, but a mere stripling. Now it happened that he was one evening amusing himself in a meadow on the banks of the Rhine, in front of his father's castle, with some of his young companions, in wrestling, racing, throwing the spear and other martial games. There was not, however, one who could throw his spear so swiftly, but that Siegfried could run after it, catch it in its flight, and bring it back to its owner. There was one alone among them, who had all approached him in speed. To him, he said, Hark ye, my friend, I will dart my spear into yonder oak, and before thy hand has touched the spear, either in the air or in the tree, I will have drained my drinking-horn to thy health.  If thou winnest, thy prize shall be my drinking-horn. All who heard this deemed it a foolish offer, for the drinking-horn was of ivory, richly adorned with gold and silver, and with ancient stories skillfully depicted on it. Ten noble falcons would not have matched its worth. Surely, thought they all, he has quaffed his last draft out of that drinking-horn. The oaks and yon meadow are not far off, and the other lad will have brought the spear ere he shall have put the horn to his lips. The other lad thought so likewise, and gladly prepared for the trial. Siegfried now filled his horn, while all around stood anxiously watching him. With one hand he swept the fair curls from his brow, with the other he poised his spear, as if aiming at the nearest oak in the meadow.  Siegfried now drew back, and with a mighty effort hurled the spear, smiling as he threw it. The spear flew whistling across the broad Rhine, and pierced deep into a distant oak on the opposite side. His competitor had already set off running towards the oaks on the meadow. He thought he was in advance of the spear, but turning round he saw all his companions laughing and pointing to the distant oak. Instantly he sprang into the river, and swam straight as an arrow to where the spear had flown. Siegfried, smiling, emptied his richly ornamented horn to the success of the swimmer, and bade his comrades to do the like. They drank and exclaimed, Hail to young Siegfried! Since the days of the heroes of old, no spear has been better thrown in the lands of Germany, and long will it be remembered from north to south. Presently the swimmer returned with the spear, took his falcon, and offered it to Siegfried as his prize. But Siegfried presented to him the full drinking horn, saying, Scarcely along the whole course of the Rhine it could a swimmer be found to excel thee, but thou hast tasted water enough, so refresh thee from the horn. After he had drank, Siegfried placed the falcon on his own arm, playfully put the gold band of his horn in its beak, took the hood from his eyes, and let him loose. The falcon flew with the horn into the blue sky, wheeling round and round as if seeking his prey. He floated without stretched and almost motionless wings over the Königsberg, then said Siegfried, smiling, Call thy falcon off, or he will pounce upon my mother's white doves on the castle roof, and then he will never dare come into her sight again. His companion did so, and at his whistle the falcon descended straight down and settled on the shoulder of his former master. But Siegfried said, See, the faithful creature will not acknowledge me as his rightful master. He thinks I have won the wager wrongfully, and he has therefore brought the drinking horn as the prize which of right belongs to thee. His decision shall prevail, keep the horn, and when in the social banquet thou drinkest from it, thou and thy race to all futurity shall think of me and of my casting the spear. So, spake Siegfried, and all who heard him were well pleased with his speech, and said to one another, He has thrown the spear like a hero, and spoken as became a king's son. End of the second adventure. The third adventure of Siegfried the Dragon Slayer, by Anonymous. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain, recording by Phil Shempf, of the Emperor Otnit and Wolf Dietrich, and how Siegfried asked permission to go out into the world. In the evening they all returned singing to Königsberg, where they sat down to table in the large hall. They ranged themselves around the fire. One cut himself arrows, another sharpened his sword, or polished his shield, or set his hunting gear in order. Meantime much was said, both mirthful and grave, of battles and hunting, of feasts and festivals. Siegfried alone sat silent by the fire, playing with the burning brands, and looked thoughtfully on the flames as if dreaming. The evening was far advanced when one of the party took down a horn from the wall and began to blow on it, whilst an aged minstrel sang a song of the Emperor Otnit, which began thus. No longer may I tarry, the Emperor Otnit said, for I must fight the dragon in yonder forest shade. In vain around him clinging fast hung his anxious wife. He leaves her in her sorrow and hastens to the strife. He rode about the forest, he rode the veil along, the weary way beguiling with many an ancient song. In hollows and in caverns he strove the foe to find. His shouts of bold defiance were lost upon the wind. At length he sees a meadow, through which a streamlet flows. A bird sang there so sweetly, inviting to repose. The air was all enchanted, the earth was fairy-ground, the very winds breathed music, and magic dwelt around. Upon a bed of roses the hero lays him low, nor thinks that near him lieth his fierce and deadly foe. In vain his hound is barking, his steed nays loud and deep. Alas, their faithful warning but soothes him in his sleep. In vain dreams that he has conquered that the mighty dragon's dead. The monster howls beside him and wakes him from his bed. In vain he grasped his weapon, the dragon or him stood. Alas, that pleasant meadow is dyed with Otnett's blood. When the Mithril had finished, Siegfried said, Truth is a mournful lay, and it makes me sad to think that so bold a hero should perish so miserably in his sleep. Sing us a more cheerful song, and tell us if no one came who avenged the noble emperor on the poisonous serpent. The song, it is true, is melancholy, but your youths and sons of heroes may learn from it a useful lesson, not to allow yourselves to be alert by soft voices, or lie carelessly down to slumber on roses when you are going to meet the foe. Yes indeed the emperor Otnett was avenged, and this is the subject of a more cheerful song, which I will sing for you as my parting song tonight. Accordingly he began again. Say, who was beset and bravest amid the battle's rage, and who was held most famous in the old heroic age? The night most bold and famous, Wolf Dietrich he is named, he slew fully many a dragon, fully many a lion tamed. Twas early in the morning the hero waking cried, Awake! away to battle this moment I must ride. Twas thus he cried at waking, and sprang at once to horse, fierce giants and fell dragons destroying in his course. He rode a long day's journey, the woods and meadows through, and came to Bern's fair city beside the lake so blue. He gazed upon the castle, where once in joyous mood the emperor's guests were feasted and drank the red grape's blood, and hasting to the portal the brave knight blew his horn, and asked the silent watchman in anger and in scorn. No speak and say this moment at that watchman on the wall, why Otnett's dogs are howling, why keeps his steed the stall. Why are your halls so silent, your banner darkly furrowed, has then brave Otnett perished, the wonder of the world? Responding from the turrent the sorrowing watchman said, respect our grief and leave us, we mourn alas the dead. Twas on a fatal morning Lord Otnett left these walls, for this his hounds are howling and silent are his halls.  A voice came from those turrets, so soft, so sad, so deep. Sir Knight, depart in pity and leave me here to weep. My grief is past my telling, I weep both night and day, for this is sorrow's dwelling and now Sir Knight away. He only will I welcome, I ever ever said, who on the poisonous serpent revenges Otnett dead. And since none dare avenge him I still withheld my hand, for this the base oppressor hath taken my golden land. So ride away, Sir Stranger, for all my joys have flown, from early morn till even I sit and weep alone. I ride not home, sweet lady, it is not for gold or land I come to seek your castle with my trusty sword in hand. But giants fierce and dragons I dared to mortal strife, the sufferer and the mourner I guard with limb and life, where pain and sorrow languish beneath oppressions might, where death appears in anguish upon the field of fight. There is my scene of labor, till there I haste with speed, till there I wield my saber, till there I urge my steed. O ride along, Sir Stranger, your hand is all too weak, nor on the field of danger presume your fate to seek. The spoke the weeping lady, a veil concealed her face, while down her cheeks of beauty her tears each other chase. That moment came a falcon and seized upon her dove, and bore his prey so gentle to the blue sky far above. His spear, the hero grasping, he hurled it swift on high, it reached the falcon flying and pierced him in the sky. The dove returned uninjured, and sought his mistress fair. The hawk fell in the waters, and sank and perished there.  He said, O gentle lady, be kind as I am bold. He spoke, she closed the casement. He saw her parting form, then swiftly turned his coarser and hurried like the storm. On either hand beside him a dog now swiftly bounds. They follow him and gladly, for they are odd in its hounds. And hasting on his sally he rides in joyous mood, and finds at length the valley where dwells the dragon brood, and hark, o'er all the valley, what sights and sounds of ire, what mean those fearful roaring, those flames of deadly fire. A lion fights the dragon, and hence those horrors came. The lion breathes the roaring, the dragon breathes the flame. The lion bounds to greet him, with teeth so sharp so white, the dragon crawls to meet him with fangs of deadlier might. Tis well, my trusty lion, the hero Dietrich cried, I'll help thee in the conflict, and battle by thy side. The hero braves the monster, and hurls his spear with speed, but against the scaly armor tis broken like a reed. Again he braves the monster, and wields his sword in ire, but it melts before his breathing like a lead before the fire. Again the lion sallies, in fury to the strife, again Wolf Dietrich rallies, and seeks the dragon's life. They wrestle and they struggle, yet seem to strive in vain, for neither yields the contest, though their blood has dyed the plain. The dragon with his talons has seized the hero's shield, the lion springs upon him, the dragon seems to yield, and now the dragon seizes the lion in its tail, against its deadly pressure, nor strength nor skill prevail. And weaker yet, and weaker, the brave Wolf Dietrich grows, till the dragon breathed but o'er him, and no more the hero rose. The monster bore the lion, wrapped in his scaly fold, and in his jaws of fury he bore the night so bold. But ah, his limbs were weary, and as he reached his nest, he fell for very weakness, and sank at once to rest. Then creeping to the lion came first the dragon's brood, they broke his bones asunder, and then they sucked his blood. They swallowed first the lion, and finishing their meal, they next attacked the hero, and licked his coat of mail. But though they licked him over, and moistened leg and arm, they cannot pierce his armor, the night lies free from harm. And weary thus, and angered, they seize him in their sport, they throw him to each other, with many a wound and hurt. They throw him each to other, amid their cruel play, till sleep hath seized each brother, and all in slumber lay. So long the stars above him, their nightly watching kept, so long, amid his tormentors, the patient hero slept. But when the sun, arising, shot forth his earliest beam, the hero then awoke him, as from some fearful dream. He rose at once on waking, and sought his sword and spear, but dragon's dire and courses alone were lying near. But searching all around him, what charm might aid a ford? He saw, not far before him, a light and gleaming sword. The sword was once Lord Odnitz, he had borne it to the strife. That sword alone is fated to take the dragon's life. He waved it high, and swung it so bravely and so true, that ere the monster wakened, his head from shoulders flew. He then assailed the young ones, he first cut off their head, and next their tongue of venom, and then exulting said, Now I return in triumph, and ask the lady's hand, for Odnitz sleeps with honour, and free is all the land. When the song was ended it was near midnight. The aged man laid himself down to rest, and the others followed his example. Sieg Friedelon remained beside the fire. He sat silent and motionless, watching fixedly, like a man lurking in ambush for his foe. On a sudden he snatched up a firebrand, waved it on high, and struck at the flames violently as if he would slay a dragon, whilst the sparks flew about far and wide in the ancient hall. The youth sat thus a while in deep thought, when his eyes fell on the wall where the deeds of his ancestors, the kings and heroes of old, were to be seen skillfully worked in tapestry by noble dames, how they fought with giants and dragons. Above the pictures hung their victorious swords, and the weapons with which they had conquered, and the tongues and teeth of the monsters they had slain. Sieg Fried, however, felt as if he dared not venture to look up at the ancient and venerable heroes as he sat so idly there at home, and performed no deed worthy of remembrance. As he raised his eyes it appeared as if the faded pictures became reanimated, and were looking down upon him with reproach and scorn, and he seemed to hear a voice saying, I, sit there like a girl by the fire, Sieg Fried, and warm thee all the days of thy life, that is thy place, but not abroad in the field where brave men wield the sword. Then the youth grew angry, his eyes shone bright and clear. He started up, seized the firebrand, and was about to hurl it against the figures that seemed to mock at him, but letting fall his arm he exclaimed, had ye be living men, and spoken to me thus scornfully, it would have availed you little old gray beards, that ye were my ancestors.  I will go forth into the world this very hour, and try the fate of battle, and win glory, like my fathers, those kings and heroes. He went and took his best sword, and girdled it on his side. The large ancient shield, which hung over the pictures he fastened about his neck, slung over his shoulders a rich crossbowl and a horn, the one which Wolf Dietrich had borne of old, and then threw over him the skin of a bear, which he himself overcome with his single arm, without sword or weapon. Thus armed he entered the apartment where his father and mother slept, and stood before their couch. They asked him what he was doing so early, and if he wished to go forth to the chase. I truly do wish to go to the chase, but the game I seek is the fame of a hero, and the glory of the fight, and therefore I am come to ask you your leave and blessing, for I can bear no longer to sit here idle, day after day, like a sick falcon that with broken wing dares not venture from its nest, and I long to go forth into the world to add to the glory of my race, as thou, father, and our forefathers, the heroes and kings from time immemorial, have done in the days of your youth. His father listened with joy to the words of the brave youth, yet not all unmixed with a saddened feeling, but the mother fell to weeping bitterly for her loved son, at the thought of the perils that his courage urged him to seek. Nay, thou art yet too young, said his father, stay here awhile with us, until thou art stronger, then I will find companions to go with thee on thy heroic course. No, that may not be answered, Siegfried, it would be death to me to tarry longer here. Wherever I look, all seem to mock my idle repose, night and day I have no rest, and a secret impulse drives me from my home. The thought is forever present to my mind, and when the minstrels of future times shall sing of my ancestors and of thee and extol your deeds, they will think of me too, and scornfully exclaim, King Siegmund had indeed a son, strong and tall as his father, but his name is lost in the darkness of night, for he accomplished no deeds that might have adorned it. He thought only of chasing the stags and timid deer in the forest, but he never ventured into the field of manly fight. This is my constant thought, and it cuts me to the soul, more than could the keenest edge of an enemy's sword, rather than waste my life thus ingloriously, and die like a young oak which cannot stretch itself out in the open air. Let me go forth, perchance I may return a joyous victor, or find at least a glorious death. When Siegfried Seier perceived his firm resolution, he no longer withheld his consent, but gave him his hand in testimony of his approbation, saying, Go then, my son, and show thyself worthy of thy fathers, the hero-kings, be prudent in counsel and quick in action, strong be thy arm and gentle thy mind, like the good sword which is sharp and bending. Guard thyself against arrogance in prosperity, for that is the father of ruin, and be ashamed of cowardice in ill fortune, for such is the mother of dishonor and destruction. Avoid the discourse and friendship of the artful and unworthy, for even the smell of poisonous flowers is deadly. Trust not, my son, the false smile of the wicked, for it is like the green bog in the sunshine. Maintain thyself honorably in combat, be true to thy word, firm in friendship and spotless in life, for life soon passes away, and when death meets thee and robs thee of sword and shield, helmet and spear, thy deeds will follow after thee, and for them thou wilt receive honor or shame, reward or punishment from the Almighty Father, and may he accompany thee on thy way. Siegfried kissed his father's hand grieffully, and with reverence for his wholesome instruction and advice, and promised to bear faithfully in his mind and heart all that he had said as his best treasure. His parents then embraced and kissed him once more, and with hurried steps he left their presence and hastened out of the hall to the green wood, over which the morning sun was rising in soft beaming splendor. End of the third adventure. The fourth adventure of Siegfried the Dragonslayer, by Anonymous. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain, recording by Phil Shempf. How Siegfried the Swift went through the wilderness and what he encountered there. Siegfried left his father's castle alone, his companions were all still asleep, and his two faithful dogs only followed his steps. He took his way up the Rhine, towards the south over green fields, through dark forests, and across gloomy glands. The hounds bounded on before him, chasing the beasts of prey, and rousing them before his spear. Many a poisonous serpent, and many a wild bird of prey the hero slew with his arrow, and transfixed to the rocks to mark the path that he had followed. One while he would rush forth like the hurricane that roars over the wooded heights. Then again he would stand still, and sound his horn to the barking dogs, or he sang some old heroic song, or cheerful hunting tune, till the rocks re-eckled with the sound. The clear water of the forest stream was his drink, the beasts he slew, and the wild fruits were his food. At night he slept on his shield beneath the old oak trees, with his naked sword by his side. At his feet lay his faithful dogs, who roused him whenever a beast of prey approached, and he rose as soon as the day began to dawn. Onward he went, blithe and joyous, but as yet he had met with no giant, nor the signs of any dragon, for which he longed so much. This troubled him greatly, and he said to himself, My fathers, the heroes of old, have left me a sorry chase. The noblest game they have slain themselves, and may fairly mock at me from the old pictures. I fear in truth that but little hero's work is left for me. So saying he vented his vexation on the snakes and beasts of prey, and proceeded onwards with increased haste and impatience, where the trees in the ancient forest stood the thickest, so that the sky was scarcely to be seen. Upon the ground the roots of the trees were closely pressed together, and so strangely entwined, that Siegfried was one moment obliged to leap over, and at another, to creep under them. One morning as he was hastening on impatiently, he came to a spot where the trees stood more apart. Skirting this lay a smiling mead, adorned with varied flowers and tall grass, through which ran a forest stream. Suddenly he heard a loud noise, as if some horsemen were dashing through the wood. The boughs of the trees were forcibly bent back, and a snow-white stag of unusual size made its appearance. The hair on its breast hung down with age, like a beard, and its antlers, divided into many branches, were so far-parted from each other that the arms of a man were unable to stretch from end to end. What most excited Siegfried's astonishment was a brilliant crown of gold that the stag bore upon his head, as he stalked proudly along like the king of the forest. It seemed as if the animal had wandered for many years in solitude, with the golden crown upon his head, without seeing the face of man, for he stood quietly beside the young hero, looking steadfastly at him, as if struck with wonder. Siegfried was feigned to know the meaning of the crown upon the animal's head, so he called his dogs to take the stag alive. But no sooner did he approach than the stag bounded forward, followed by Siegfried along the veil, up and down, through meadows and fields, over streams and rocks, and every time the young hunter thought to catch him, the stag escaped by a fresh leap. Thus they continued the chase, followed by the hounds, till the wearied animal came to the edge of a precipice. Deep beneath lay an unfathomable lake. The stag was just in the act of springing over when Siegfried caught him with his right hand by the golden crown, and planting his left foot against his back, he pulled the stag towards him. He now perceived that it was the same stag of which the story had often been told him, how his grandfather had taken it when young, and had placed the golden crown with a silver rim upon his head. Siegfried broke off a point from the crown as a remembrance, and let the affrighted animal run loose. Then he continued his course onwards through the wilderness, day after day, like a lion in quest of prey. It happened one evening that he was in chase of a bear in the deep and shady veil. Steep and dark rose the rocky heights to the right and the left, while from a narrow opening beneath, covered a forest stream white with foam. The full moon had already risen, and cast here and there a bright gleam over the dark glen. The projecting rocks, however, with their corners and points of a thousand varied forms, half illumined, half in shade, looked so strange that Siegfried at first fancied them no other than real giants and dragons, and dark figures of the night of which the old minstrel sang. His ear now caught in the far distance amid the noise of the rushing stream the sounds of hollow blows, as if two mighty rocks were being struck and severed from each other. He hastened towards the spot, and as he advanced they appeared to grow gradually louder and louder. Until at length he seemed to be in the midst of the noisy den, yet he fancied that they must proceed from the interior of the mountain. So he applied his ear to the side of the rock, and it seemed as if he heard rough voices, discoursing in a language quite unintelligible to him, and yet he nowhere saw any entrance. Again he advanced a few yards, when suddenly the valley took a turn, and he found himself standing before a high wall of blocks of stone, rays of light gleamed through the crevices, and black smoke streamed forth. The wall was overgrown with forest plants, and below lay enormous trunks of trees. The heavy blows of a hammer re-eckled from the interior, accompanied by a hollow murmuring sound of music as from voices. Even the rushing noise of the neighbouring waterfall was overpowered by this subterranean song, which resembled the wind, when in the stillness of the night it howls through the hollows of the rocks, and then suddenly rages with a loud roar over the ocean waves and forces them on high. When Siegfried had listened for a while, he climbed up to the rocky heights to see who dwelt there. Through a wide opening he looked into a deep and high vaulted cavern. A dark red flame was burning upon a forge in the depths of the cave, whilst men of a wild aspect lifted with large pincers the glowing iron from the fire to an anvil, where they struck it with heavy hammers. Through the hollow trunk of a tree the wind whistled into the fire. Through that of another the water flowed into a vessel of rock. The dark red flame was strangely reflected on the agitated water, clear as crystal, and in the sooty faces of the smiths. On the walls hung heavy swords, old and new, of various kinds, and near them were richly ornamented shields. In the former were reflected the red and flickering flames, in the latter the rays of the silent silver moon, and they hung there and shone like large lamps. Meanwhile a shower of sparks was scattered through the cave, so that the black men seemed like evil spirits standing in the midst of the fiery element. They were of large make, but of greater breadth than height. Their faces were black as the wall itself, and their eyes beamed from beneath their bushy eyebrows, like the red flames of the forge.  They spoke not a word to each other, except when they laid the iron on the fire and stirred the flames.  As soon as it was ready he took the ox from the fire, laid it on a round iron table, and cut from it with his axe as many pieces as there were men in the cavern. He laid each piece separate, and a block of stone which stood near served as a seat. Then he lighted a fur torch and went to another part of the cave, where he stuck the flaming torch into the wall, and poured out the drink from the huge casks into iron jugs. Siegfried observed all this and said to himself, the hospitality of these people, me thinks, is small and sorry enough, but their hunger is all the greater, for truly they have enormously wide jaws. The safest thing for me will be to take my portion at once and leave them to settle the rest among themselves. Thereupon he stretched forth his spear towards the table and seized the piece which lay nearest him. Long before the black man returned, Siegfried and his dogs had devoured the meat. When all was ready the smith took a hammer in his hand and struck three times upon an iron shield, and instantly all the smiths ran, each to his block of stone, and quickly had his piece of meat in his mouth. One of them, however, cried out, Hello Eckhart, thou old glutton, what has thou done with my meat? Eckhart looked right and left, and know we're seeing it, he said in a muttering tone. If ye steal the meat among you while I get ready the drink, ye may look yourselves where it is gone. Thou knowest full well where it is gone, said the hungry smith, nor is this the first time thou hast taken the meat and given us the bones, and if thou canst not say where it is, all hammer that skull of thine until thou shalt recollect. So saying he sprang upon Eckhart, but another held him back, and a violent quarrel arose among the smiths. Some cried out that Eckhart had stolen the meat, others said that someone else must have slipped away from the anvil and taken it, while Eckhart swore hard and fast that he had not touched it. They grew more and more furious, and were about to come to blows with their hammers when Siegfried suddenly appeared above the cave and called on them to desist. The noise, however, was so great that they heeded his presence no more than they did that of the moon, which was silently beaming on them. Then Siegfried, the young hero, put his horn to his lips and blew with all his might so loud a blast that the whole cavern resounded, and the shields were shaken on the walls. All were silent as if struck by lightning. But Siegfried said to them, Listen ye rude and savage fellows, I tell you that ye are fools and madmen to wrangle thus with each other, for tis eye that I've eaten the meat, and now I pray you to welcome and entertain me becomingly as your guest. At these bold words the smiths stood even more aghast than at the sound of the horn, but they soon gave way to their rage at his presumption, and everyone seized and hurled at Siegfried whatever came to hand. But quickly snatching a heavy mass of stone from the rocky wall, he cast it with such force upon the iron table that the table broke in two, and he cried, Let none raise a hand more, or ye are all doomed to death, unless your skulls are harder than your iron. Then their leader commanded them to desist from the strife, and indeed that there might be some mighty giant above their cave, who in his wrath would forthwith bury them within its walls, and he ordered one of the smiths to admit the stranger. The smith took a hammer, pushed away the rock from the entrance, and exclaimed, when he beheld Siegfried, Truly I thought to see a giant, and I find a dwarf, art thou the frog that has croaked so loud? What is thy name and calling, and whence comes thou? Siegfried answered him proudly. Thou hast asked me three questions, but hast forgotten the fourth, whether it pleases me to answer thee one of them. If, however, a better one than thou inquire, tell him that my calling is to carry a sharp sword, to silence insolent fellows of whom thou seemest to be one, a name I have not yet gotten, but I come to win one, and if thou wits know the road to my sire's castle, the wild beasts and birds of prey I have hung upon the trees and fixed to the rocks in my way hither will show it thee. Ha! Does thou blow again so stoutly thy horn? answered the smith. I faint would try if thy sword is really better than my hammer. So, saying, he swung his hammer round and aimed a deadly blow at Siegfried's head. But the young hero met it with his trusty sword, whose edge cleft the handle in twain, so that the iron mass fell to the earth. The smith now hurried into the cavern, followed by Siegfried and his dogs. But here Siegfried was attacked by the furious Eckhart, who rushed upon the undaunted hero, and aimed a blow at his cheek with the massy tongs. Here the blow reached him, however. Siegfried seized him with his left hand by his bristly hair and threw him on the ground. All the smiths now fell upon the intrepid youth to rescue their companion Eckhart. But Siegfried held him firmly by the hair and ran with him round the cavern, followed by the smiths. But his sword, which he wielded with his right hand, kept them off, while his trusty dogs sprang barking at their throats and dragged them down. The whole mountain trembled with the sounds of fury, and it seemed as if the savage host within the cavern were engaged in some wild marriage dance. At length the leader of the smiths commanded peace and then, turning angrily to Siegfried exclaimed, Hear me, thou art in truth a most ill-mannered guest. First thou steelest our meat, and then draws thy sword upon one of our comrades. Siegfried answered him proudly. Truly it does thee little honour to make such war upon a guest about the bone of an ox. For in faith I give thee leave to throw me into yonder fire and burn me to ashes. If by tomorrow's dawn I bring thee not, in its stead, an entire orrox, and if thou wilt teach me the art of forging weapons, I will serve thee truly, and thy spit shall never want supplies from the forest. This offer seemed to please the master better, and he bade Siegfried welcome, then they all sat down together and were soon as good friends as if nothing happened. End of the fourth adventure The fifth adventure of Siegfried the Dragonslayer by Anonymous. This Librivox recording is in the public domain, recording by Phil Shempf. Mimer relates the adventures of Veland, the best of all smiths and armorers. Siegfried took his seat boldly among the smiths and had an answer for every question, as if he had grown up among them in the smoky cavern. Mimer imagined he had gained in Siegfried a good workman and told him that if he served him well, he would make him as clever as smith as Veland, the best of all armorers. Then Siegfried asked him who this Veland was and what he had produced. But Mimer replied in surprise, thou seemest to me not to have long crawled out of thy nest if thou knowest not a Veland of whom everyone has heard. But that is a long and wondrous history and we have no time for it today, for Veland forged so many skillful things that one can scarcely even tell of them. Siegfried begged him again with great earnestness and promised to bring him the fattest orrocks of the forests far around. Well then said Mimer, I will tell thee of Veland, but remember, if thou keepest not thy word, I'll fix thee with my own hands to the highest rock, where thou shalt remain until the eagles and vultures bear the away piecemeal. Siegfried laughed at this threat and Mimer began as follows. Veland, the most famous of all armorers, came from Zeeland. His father was named Wade and he was of the race of the giants. He was once told that two dwarfs lived in a hollow mountain who understood everything that heart could desire to know and were able to work in iron and silver and gold better than anyone else. So Wade, the old giant, took his son Veland and went with him to seek the little dwarfs in the mountain. On their way they came to a river, but neither boat nor ferryman was to be seen. So after waiting a long time, the old giant's patience became exhausted and he placed young Veland on his shoulder and carried him across the river. The river was five fathoms deep and yet the water scarcely reached the hem of his girdle. Thus they came safely to the skillful dwarfs and the old man gave them his son to instruct and agreed to give them a mark of gold for twelve months. At parting he charged his son to be attentive and industrious and then returned home. After the expiration of a twelve month he came again and Veland had served the dwarfs so truly and had become so clever that they would not part with him. They begged the giant to leave the boy twelve months longer and they would return him his mark of gold and teach Veland twice as many arts. The old father thought this a good offer and accepted it, but afterwards the dwarfs repeated having bought his services so dear and they required that if the giant returned not on the appointed day they should be free to cut off his son's head. The giant agreed to this also, but at parting he called to his son to accompany him part of the way. On emerging from the mine they proceeded a short distance when the father stopped and plunged his sword into a bog covered with brushwood, said, If I return not on the appointed day and the dwarfs seek thy life take this sword and defend thyself like a man for that were better than that thou shouldst be miserably murdered by two such diminutive wretches. Nevertheless I cannot but think I shall return before the appointed day. The father and son parted and saw one another no more. Veland learned all the other arts of the dwarfs. They were, however, much displeased at this, but consoled themselves with reflecting that his skill would be of no great use to him since his head was in their power. When the twelve months were drawing to a close the old giant was anxious to go to his son rather too soon than too late for the way was long and he feared to miss the appointed time. He therefore set out on his journey and traveled day and night until he came to the Hollow Mountain and this was three days earlier than the time agreed upon. But he found the mountain closed so feeling extremely tired he laid himself down to rest until it was opened and immediately sank into a deep slumber. As he lay upon the hard rock snoring so loud that the branches of the tree shook the sky grew dark a thick cloud burst an earthquake shattered the mountain and a cliff became loosened and fell grounding the sleeper in the gushing waters and burying him amidst the falling rocks and trees. Wait the old giant never awoke again. Some, however, say he is not yet dead and that at times you may hear him breathe plainly and that the whole remaining portion of the mountain trembles when he turns himself round. The dwarves opened the mountain on the appointed day and Veland went up to seek his father. He could nowhere find him and when he came to the cliff and perceived the fall he guessed what had happened. He instantly took the sword from out of the bog returned into the mine and slew the two dwarves. Then he collected together all his tools and all the gold and silver he could find and placing them on a horse journeyed northwards to Denmark. After three days he came to the vesser and for a long time he knew not how he should get over the deep stream. At length he fell the lofty tree hollowed it out and placed on the top his tools together with the gold and silver. Beneath these he laid his provisions and then he made himself windows of skins of beasts and bark of trees which were so thick that no water could penetrate them. Then he slipped himself in between and moved about until the tree rolled down the smooth bank into the stream. For eighteen days in the trunk of this tree he continued his course down the stream before he reached the land which happened just when King Nindung's people were rowing about on the sea with nets to catch fish for the royal master's table. When the fishermen drew in their nets these were so heavy that they fancied they had caught some monstrous fish but when they saw the tree cut out so skillfully they ran in haze to the king to inform him of the circumstance. The king came himself and ordered the tree to be cut asunder to see what was inside. So they forthwith set to work with their axes. Veland, however, who was listening inside the tree was not a little afraid lest they might hit him a fatal blow. So he called to them to desist saying that there was a man inside. When the people heard the tree speak with a human voice they thought the evil spirit himself was lodged in the wood and ran away as fast as their legs would carry them. Veland now opened the tree himself went to the king and requesting protection for his life offered him his services. The king saw quickly that he was a stranger and a man to command attention and not a poor wretch or wandering beggar. He therefore granted his request although the way in which he had been taken like a fish in a net appeared to him strange and wondrous. Veland hastened back to his tree and buried it together with all his tools and property contained therein. But one of the king's men named Ragon saw him by chance while thus engaged. Then Veland served the king faithfully and well for a year. His duty was to have under his care an inspection the three knives which lay on the table before the king. He went one day to the seashore and while he was washing these three knives the best of them fell from his hand into the sea and was lost. He was much troubled at this since he could not discharge even so simple an office. Then he went in haste to Emilius the king's smith but found him not for he was gone to luncheon with his companions and the smithy was empty. So Veland went to the forge himself and unseen by any human being he made a knife similar to the one he had lost whereupon he went and stood before the king's table and appeared as if nothing had happened. Presently the king took up the new knife and was about to cut with it a loaf of bread which lay before him on the table when the knife went completely through the loaf and cut a piece out of the table on which the loaf lay. The king in astonishment inquired who had made that knife. Veland replied, Who else but Emilius your smith who has made all your knives and everything else that you have caused to be forged? Emilius confirmed what he said but the king answered Emilius cannot make so good a blade and he threatened Veland with his wrath if he did not tell him the truth. Then he confessed to the king all that had happened and the king said he knew full well that Emilius could not produce such workmanship. This seemed to Emilius to convey a great reproach and insult and he rose up in anger and declared that he would challenge the stranger to forge with him and all should then see as the better skilled in the art. Then the king commanded it to be so and it was agreed that Emilius should make a helmet with a breastplate and leggings of mail and that Veland should make a sword and whoever's work was best should have the power to cut off the other's head. For the performance of the task each was to be allowed the space of a twelve month. Two of the chief serving men of the king stood up and bound themselves as sureties for Emilius and Veland was so well known that it was thought impossible he should fail. Whilst no one would venture to stand surety for the stranger Veland until at length the king himself pledged his word for him. That very day Emilius proceeded to his smithy with all his workmen and began to labor at his work and continued thus from day to day until the twelve months were ended. Veland on the other hand waited every day at the king's table and seemed as if he had heard nothing of the affair. Thus passed an entire half year when the king one day asked him how he thought to gain his wager. Veland replied that if the king were pleased to command he was ready to begin at once and he forthwith went to the spot where he had buried his tree. But this was broken up and all his tools together with the gold and silver taken out. As he stood in trouble and forplexity, looking into the water he remembered the man who had observed him whilst engaged in burying the tree, but he knew not his name. So he went straight to the king, told him the whole story, and added that he was sure he should recollect the man if he were to see him again. Thereupon the king said he would see to this, so he summoned an assemblage of his people and collected together all the men in his kingdom, but none of the royal summons. Then Veland stood at the entrance and watched each as he arrived. When the king had dismissed the assembly, Veland went to him and said that among those present he had neither seen the man himself nor anyone like him, where at King Nindung waxed exceedingly wrath and said that Veland was not so clever as he had taken him to be, but he found that he was a daring and presumptuous fool and he had himself a fool for undertaking to answer for him and for having summoned the meeting as the man in quest must surely have been there. So Veland not only lost all his tools and wealth, but also brought upon himself the king's displeasure, which troubled him still more. In this straight he went secretly and forged the image of a man. He put hair upon its head, painted it, and dressed it exactly as if it were the man that stood there. For the dwarves had also taught him this art. As soon as the figure was completed he placed it one evening in a spot which the king would have to pass and going from the hall to his chamber. When it was time to go to rest and the king came to this spot, followed by his attendance, he exclaimed in astonishment, Welcome, Reigen! Wherefore do you stand so lonely there outside? How fears it with your embassy to Sweden? The man, however, was silent. He answered not a word. The king was about to question him again when Veland, who bear the torch, said, Truly Sire, this man is bold and haughty. He will never answer you, for I made him, and he it is, who stole my tools. Then the king laughed at the image and said, Nay! In truth he could not have come to the meeting. And when Reigen soon afterwards returned from his embassy, he restored at once to Veland by the king's command everything he had taken, saying that he had only done it in jest. Veland, meanwhile, continued to stand each day at table behind the king, and served him, and did as if he had nothing else to think of, and thus passed other four months. Then the king warned him again, till he went to his smithy and began his work. Three times he made a sword, and every time he brought it to the king, it seemed the best sword he had ever seen. But Veland every time replied that it was not yet good enough. Then he went again to his forge and filed it down, and made a new one of it, much better than the former. When he came to the king the third time, the sword gleamed as brightly as a diamond. It was set with gold and had a beautiful handle. Then he went with the king to the river, threw in a flock of wool, which was three feet thick, and held the sword in the water, still and steadily against the stream. And when the wool reached the sword its edge cut it as easily as it did the water itself. On seeing this, king Nindung said with delight that in the future he would have no other sword than this in battle, for never a better could be found on earth. Whereupon Veland replied that he had rather the king should have it than anyone else, but he must first make the sheath and belt. The king consented, and Veland went to the smithy and made a second sword so like the other that no one could distinguish them. The good one he hid under the bellows of his forge, saying, lay there my good sword, Mimmong, who knows whether I may not want the heir long. From this time forward he stood day by day before the king's table. Until at length the appointed day arrived. Amelius took his helmet and suit of mail early in the morning, put them on, and paraded with them up and down through the streets and market before the astonished people. The armor was so strong and beautifully wrought that all who saw it said they had never beheld the like. At the king's table it was much admired and Amelius was assured he could not fail to win the wager. When they rose from the table the king went with all his guests to a meadow, and Amelius seated himself in the midst of an eager crowd of spectators on a broad stone seat. Vila now hastened to his smithy, took his good sword, Mimmong, and went with it behind the seat on which Amelius the smith of King Nindung sat. There he laid the edge of his sword on the stout helmet of Amelius and asked him whether he felt anything. To which Amelius replied that he felt nothing at all and bade him cut with all his might. For that truly it must be a mighty marvel if he could injure his invulnerable helmet. Vila then pressed upon his sword and it cut so forcibly that at one stroke it penetrated through the helmet and head, armor and body, down to his rival's girdle. Whereupon he asked Amelius again if he still felt nothing. And Amelius replied that he felt as if cold water were streaming over his body. Well then said Vila, now stand up and shake thyself and then thou wilt see how thou art. Now when Amelius shook himself he fell in two pieces on either side of his seat and never rose again, for there was no smith so clever as to be able to join the two parts. After this proof the king desired to have the sword of Vila, but Vila was cunning and replied that he would first dry it and fetch the sheath from the smithy. So he went and brought the king the all-sword from the forge, but he hid Mimung again under the bellows. After this Vila remained for a long time with the king. He made for him all sorts of curiosities in gold and silver and other metals, so that the fame of his skill spread far and wide. Things went on thus until a foreign army attacked the country of King Nindung and the king took the field with his men. Vila also girdled on his good him, and it happened on one occasion in the battle that the king was in great peril. No one came to his aid, and at length he promised to give his daughter to whosoever should assist him. Then Vila the clever smith came to his aid, and performed the service required, and obtained for him the victory over his enemy. But the king, instead of keeping his promise, pretended to know nothing of it, and drove his deliverer in disgrace in his court. Vila burned with indignation against the king at this treatment, and returned after some time in disguise to the court. He went into the kitchen of the palace, gave himself out for a cook, and assisted the other cooks in preparing the food for the king's table. When the dishes were placed before the king and his daughter, the latter took a knife to carve a dish that stood before her. The knife, however, was poisoned, and this sound was now heard. Search was everywhere made to discover the criminal, but all in vain. Vila laughed to himself, seeing that no one knew him, and went secretly to the table, took the knife, and laid another exactly like it in its place. Then he prepared a fresh dish, and poured over it such a magic syrup that if the maiden had eaten of it, the effect would have been to make her think of Vila for her husband. The king's daughter, however, had conceived some suspicion and held her knife to the dish, but it gave no sound. As she was still in doubt, she ordered another dish of poisoned meat to be brought, and as her knife would not sound, she saw plainly that there was some deception practiced. Thereupon the king was angry and said, No one can so skilfully have imitated this knife as Vila, among his people. At last they found him, and brought him before the king, who as a punishment ordered the tendons of both his feet to be cut, so that he could not get away. From that time he sat constantly in his smithy, and contrived all kinds of ingenious work for the king, but all the while meditating in his heart day and night the means of his revenge. At this time he sent for his brother, Igel, who could shoot the other man, and had one great fame in this art. Igel came, and on account of his skill was well received by the king. One day, however, the king was desirous to see if Igel could really shoot as well as he had been told, so he caused Igel's son, a boy of three years old, to be brought, and an apple laid upon his head, and then ordered Igel to shoot away the apple. Although the king would grant him only one shot, yet he took three arrows from his quiver, and placing one arrow on the string, and taking his aim he shot through the apple, which fell in halves. The king praised the shot, but asked him why he had taken three arrows for one shot. Igel answered fearlessly, Sire, I will not deceive thee. Know then that, had I not hit the apple with the one, the other two were destined for thee. The king received his speech well, but all the others thought that he had spoken very boldly. Velen, meantime, sat in his smithy, hammering away, and at every stroke of his hammer he uttered a curse against the king. Until one day the two youngest sons of King Nindung came to him in the smithy with their bows and begged him to make them some arrows. Velen answered that he had no time. In vain they begged him again and again, until at length he promised to grant their request if they would do him a little favor in return. Namely, that when the snow had just fallen they should come walking backwards to his smithy, and then he would show them a trick. The boys promised to do so, and scarcely had the first snow fallen when they came eagerly to the smithy. Velen, however, took them and plunged a knife into their hearts, and buried them in a deep hole beneath his bellows. They were missed the same morning. The king thought they were gone into the woods to shoot wild beasts to the sea side to fish. But when dinner time came and they did not appear, people were sent out to seek them in every direction. They came to Velen and asked if the boys had not been with him, and Velen replied that they had been with him indeed, that had long since gone away to Königsberg. The messengers perceived the footsteps in the snow in the direction of home. No one had suspicion of Velen, and it was supposed that the boys had been torn to pieces of wild beasts, or drowned in the sea. After a time when the matter was forgotten, Velen took the boys from the hole, scraped the flesh from their bones, then took their skulls, set them in gold and silver, and made them into two large drinking cups. Then of their shoulder blades and hip bones he made oil cups, and the other bones he made into knife handles and pipes. The king was delighted with these treasures, and only had them placed on the table when he had persons of distinction as his guests. Velen laughed to himself at the king's delight, and thinking that he was now sufficiently revenge, he began to consider how he could return home. Then he begged his brother, Igel, to get him all kinds of feathers, so Igel went straight ways into the woods and shot all the birds he could find, great and small. Velen made himself a winged coat of the feathers, which looked exactly like the skin stripped off of a large eagle. Then he told Igel to put on this covering and try it. Fly high and low, as you will, he said, only in a lighting go before the wind. Igel did as his brother told him, and flew aloft in the air like the swiftest bird. But when he wished to alight he fell headlong with such violence as to lose his sight in hearing. Velen asked him if anything were wanting of his coat of feathers that he had thus fallen. If it were as easy to alight as to ascend, replied Igel, thou wouldst never more have seen me again, and I should now be in another land. Velen laughed as he put the feathery covering on himself, and said, well, I knew that thou wouldst never bring it me again, and therefore it was that I bade thee light before the wind, for all the birds light against the wind. Then he added that he would forthwith fly home himself, but he desired first to take leave of the king, and if the king should command Igel to shoot at him as he flew, he begged him, as he loved him as a brother, to aim straight at his heart. The two brothers now took leave of each other, and Velen rose into the air, and flew to the highest tower, and cried aloud so that everyone could hear him far and wide, praying the king to come forth, for he had something to say to him. Then he came, with all his attendance, and said, What, art thou now become a bird, Velen? What is thy desire, and wither art thou flying? What new miracle is this? I, Sire, answered Velen, laughing, I am a bird now, and about to fly from hence, that thou treacherous king may no longer have me in thy power. Thereupon he began to mock at the king, and told him how he had appeased his revenge, until the king grew frantic with rage, and when Velen flew on high he turned to Igel, exclaiming, Come, my good Igel, thou best of shots, send thy arrows after him, that he may not escape alive. To which Igel replied, that he would not shoot his own brother, that the king threatened him with instant death, unless he did as he commanded. Then Igel laid his arrow on the bowstring, and aimed straight at his brother's heart. But Velen held his hammer in his right hand before his heart, and as the arrow rebounded against it, he seized it with his left. Igel was commanded to shoot again, but Velen did as before, and flew away, laughing scornfully, and holding an arrow in each hand. The king and all his people praised Igel for his skill, in aiming so well, but they were still more astonished at Velen's dexterity, saying they had never seen the like. Meanwhile, he reached his father's home in Zeeland, safe and sound. What afterwards became of him, I know not, but it has now grown late, and it is time for us to go to rest. Mimer's tale was now ended, and he asked Siegfried how it had pleased him, and whether he wished to become as good a smith as Velen. Siegfried replied, what pleases me most is the sword memong, as to the coat of feathers I do not need it, for I have thought of flying from man or beast. Still, me thinks, that Velen won but little honour with all his skill. He treacherously slew his masters, the clever dwarfs, and if in return for this King Nindung was treacherous to him, he revenged himself cruelly and craftily on his poor and innocent children, nor truly doth his flight and scornful laughing Bacima hero, but had he encountered my sword I would not have sat so quietly to him as Emilius, the silly smith of King Nindung, nor should his hammer have availed him much against my arrows. But if thou teachest me to make a sword like the good memong sword, none shall harm a hair of thy head, and thou mayest hang up all the precious stones and crowns in the world on the trees before thy smithy, and no one on earth shall dare to stretch out his hand to take them. That we will see tomorrow, replied Mimer, we shall then try whether you can use your hammer as well as you can your tongue, but now you must go to rest, for it is midnight, and early in the morning we shall be strong and fresh for work. Thereupon they all lay down to rest upon their skins of wild beasts, but Siegfried reposed upon his shield between his two dogs whom he bound to the handle of his spear, and he slept as soundly and tranquilly as if he had been at home in his father's castle. End of the fifth adventure. The sixth adventure of Siegfried the Dragon Slayer by Anonymous. This liverbox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Phil Shempf. Host Siegfried brings an aurochs to the smiths. Early the next morning, when the first rays of the sun gleamed upon the sooty faces of the sleeping smiths, Siegfried sprang up from his shield and started off with his dogs to hunt in the forest. He traversed hill and dale until he came on the track of an aurochs. His dogs pursued it eagerly and barked louder and louder as they approached the animal. Siegfried hastened on and came up just as the aurochs was rushing upon one of the dogs while the other hound clung fast to its ear. The furious beast lifted one dog upon its horns and tossed it far behind him amidst the trees. Whilst the other dog fell stunned upon the ground between the animal's feet. The beast now saw the hero advancing against him. At first he tore up the earth with his four feet, wild with a rage. Then he stood still, measuring the stripling with glaring eyes and presently dashed with fury at him. Siegfried sprang aside, seized the creature's horns with both his hands back his fallen head till the beast reared up and was forced to stand firm and upright as if life had departed from him. Thus Siegfried led him to the smithy. When he came before the cavern's mouth, he cried aloud, Wake up! Wake up and receive what I have promised you yesterday. So saying he thrust the beast into the cave, struck aside the stone and placed himself in the opening to see what was passing. The smiths leaped from their beds in consternation at the sight of the monstrous beast and each ran to some place of safety. Some jumped aloft and held fast on the shields and nails in the wall. Others placed themselves behind an anvil, one sprang upon the forge and another crept hastily and hid himself in the ashes beneath. The master alone snatched a shield from the wall and placed himself with a heavy hammer at the center of the cavern, facing the aurochs. The animal at first stood still as if in amazement at the strange scene and looked around. Then he ran furiously at the master while Siegfried blew a lusty hunting strain on his horn. Before the master could swing his hammer he was laid prostrate on the ground under his shield. The beast now rushed at those who stood trembling behind the anvil but they ran right then left, on the wall to the entrance. The aurochs in his fury tossed aside the anvil and stood still before the forge, pawing the ground with his feet and watching an opportunity to attack the man who stood upon the forge. Then the beast bellowed aloud with fury and the man shrieked with fear while Siegfried blew a merry strain as an accompaniment to the dance. The master, having now recovered a little from his fall, and striking its skull with the sharp end of the hammer, it fell dead upon the ground. End of the sixth adventure the seventh adventure of Siegfried the Dragon Slayer by Anonymous. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Phil Shempf. How Siegfried learns to be a smith and how he was sent by the treacherous mimer to the dragon. All now hastened up and mimer the master said angrily to Siegfried another time, rather take from us than give to us, for the second was worse than the first. Be not so angry, master smith, answered Siegfried. I thought the Arocs could better run to thee than I could drag him, and moreover, I imagined it would be good sport for thee to give him his death blow. Perhaps I may be able to make the amends in the smithy and produce something useful to thee. If thou dost that, thou shalt have our praise," replied the master, but we will try at once what thou canst do. Thereupon he seated himself before the forge, took a massy piece of iron, held it in the fire, and gave a weighty hammer that he could scarcely lift into Siegfried's hand. When the iron was red hot, he took it out and laid it on the anvil and bade Siegfried strike it. At the first blow that Siegfried struck, the stone which supported the anvil split in two, and the anvil sank into the earth. The iron and pincers, too, which Mimer held with both his hands, flew in pieces, and the head of the hammer flew off into a corner of the cavern. Then said Mimer in amazement, but with increased wrath, never have I seen such a fearful, yet clumsy blow struck. Never thou art, it is clear that thou wilt never do for our work. But Siegfried replied, did any man ever become a good shot at the first aim? What does not happen today, happens tomorrow, therefore I pray be not soured in temper. Then Mimer was silent, for he thought only how he might destroy Siegfried, believing that he was of the race of heroes, a young wolf with sharp teeth who would bring no good to him in his race. Now Mimer the Smith had a comrade whose mind was filled with impiety and vice. Whatever he touched produced poisonous fruit, and to foster this was his soul delight. Therefore the curse had struck him, and he could only crawl about on his hands and knees in the form of a terrible dragon. Then Mimer considered how he could best get rid of the stout young hero, and the idea occurred to his mind sending him to his comrade for instruction. So he said to Siegfried, listen, my bold young friend, you have done nothing as yet in our art. If you wish to learn how to make a good and trusty sword, you must first go to the woods, and begin by charcoal burning. Siegfried was well content, and promised to do as he was desired, for his heart never dreamt of malice or evil. End of the seventh adventure The Eighth Adventure of Siegfried the Dragon Slayer, by Anonymous. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain. Recording by Phil Shempf. How Siegfried fights with the dragon, and bathes himself in his blood. Mimer now prepared Siegfried for the journey, and gave him meat and drink for the days that he was to be absent, which the hero secured under his shield. Mimer also gave him an axe, and then showed him the way to the wood, where he intended to accomplish his destruction. When Siegfried had come to the spot, which the false master had described to him, he halted. Then he went up to the trees, gave each a blow with the axe which he held in his right hand, and bending them down with his left, he thus felled them. After a while he carried away the trees, and piling them up in a heap, he made a great fire. The sun was now at the meridian, so he coursed to his stock of provisions, and never left off until he had finished all the supply that Mimer had given him, for his chase through the forest after giants and dragons had given a keen edge to his appetite. After this refreshment, he said to himself as he sat on the stump of an old oak tree, there is now no one so strong as to lift a spear against me, but he would presently lie stretched at his length upon the ground, and never desire to rise again. As he said this, the huge dragon came crawling forth, with a mouth that was wide enough to swallow a man, flesh and bones and all. It had black wings like a bat, its body was swollen with poison, and resembled a toad, but its long tail was as sharp as a two-edged sword. When Siegfried saw the monster with his sharp white teeth, he was as delighted as if a long look for friend was coming, and he cried, now I may have a chance of trying my prowess as I wished. Thereupon he ran to the fire, seized the largest tree and hastily attacked the fierce creature with the burning brand. He rushed headlong upon him and forced the flaming point straight into his right eye, so that the beast ride with the anguish. Then Siegfried struck him on the head with such force that at the first stroke he was lost straight on the earth, and then he gave him repeated blows until the monster was dead. Siegfried now sat down to rest, and said chuckling to himself, if the dragons can do no more than this creature here, it is hardly worth the trouble to attack them. He had, however, grown hungry again from his new toil, and he felt as if he had all this time eaten nothing, but it was now growing dark. He had no wish to turn to the smithy, and knew not where to procure food. At last he bethought him to roast the heart of the dragon for his supper, so he went at once to work and thrust his spear down the creature's jaws and body, the trunk of a large tree served for a spit, and on it he hung the dragon with his spear before the fire. But presently the scaly coat began to soften before the fire, and the blood and flat flowed in a stream of melted lead. Siegfried took the flesh of the creature in his hand, but it burned his fingers and he put them to his mouth to cool them. But when the horn became cold in his mouth it seemed as if he were biting into steel it had become so hard. He looked at his fingers and they were covered with horn, as with gloves of iron. When the young hero beheld this he felt rejoiced and quickly throwing off his clothes he held his helmet under the scales till it had grown hard and then bathed himself in the stream which flowed from the dragon. The horn covered his whole body except the back between the two shoulders, where a leaf of the lime tree had fallen, which the horn could not penetrate. This horn was like a strong coat of armor which no weapon could penetrate except between the shoulders where the lime leaf had fallen and from this horny covering the hero was called Siegfried to the present day. Then he took up an axe and cut the dragon in pieces, part he gave to his dogs and the rest he threw to the birds of prey, the head he put aside. Then he laid down again to take his meal and the birds of the forest sung their evening song. He cut out the heart of the beast with his sword and behold while he was eating there resounded many voices as if of men around him whereupon he turned and was about to invite them to his meal but he saw nothing but trees and birds which were hopping from bow to bow and seeking a place of rest. Now he perceived that the voices he heard could come only from the birds and he remembered that he had once heard an old ballad sung by a foreign minstrel in which he was said that whoever ate the heart of a dragon should instantly learn the language of the birds and thus learn many a secret. He therefore resisted begging and listened to the voices of the birds. Presently a coil cried out to her sister Bill Derrick, success success the dragon is conquered and killed, killed as she was crying thus a chaff inch came flying by he had not understood the coil clearly and cried what what what the dragon conquered victory victory victory a black bird whistled yes only think of it Siegfried has done it, hail to the Siegfried Siegfried Siegfried Siegfried with him came three old ravens and seated themselves croaking on the bow of a withered oak the first said to the second alas alas alas thou hast again deceived us sister didst thou not say that we should find Siegfried dead yes replied the other I heard myself this morning how Mimer laughed at Siegfried and said go proud boy the ravens will soon fly off with my bones the dragon will help me to burn coals thus said Mimer and if Siegfried's arm had not been stronger than his understanding it would have turned out so there upon the third raven began I am afraid there will not be much for us here for Siegfried's dogs leave little behind however we must not despair we shall still be able to pick out his eyes for he is too confiding and trusts too much in men otherwise he would have seen from Mimer's evil eyes that he meant him no good if Siegfried does not take care the other will plant his iron in his heart yet I but if he is wise replied the first raven he will cut off Mimer's head in time that I should be sorry for said the third for he has given us many a good feast from dead bodies but let us fly away before the sun sets for yonder in the forest I know of a fallen stag let us go and enjoy it together the two weathers accepted the invitation and they all flew away together with a loud croak meantime the little birds had all become silent Siegfried with his dogs continued his supper in peace then he went to a clear stream where he drank and laid himself down to sleep under an oak resting according to his custom upon his shield and when he looked up at the huge trunk of the tree and saw its wide and leafy branches and how the winds of evening played around its top and the stars shown through its bows how the birds found rest in its covering and the animals lay beneath its shelter and the branches were ranged around its stem and when he further reflected how many a tempest and storm laid and then it now overshadowed the land like a king then Siegfried thought how he should like to stand like an oak among men lending shade and protection to all around and with this thought he fell asleep end of the eighth adventure the ninth adventure of Siegfried the Dragon Slayer by Anonymous this LibriVox recording is in the public domain recording by Phil Shemf how Siegfried comes again to the smithy and settles accounts with Meimer next morning early when the birds of the forest large and small hailed the young day with their joyous song Siegfried arose stuck the head of the dragon on the point of his spear and went straight back to the smithy Meimer and his companions heard from afar the barking of dogs and the rustling of the bushes and the steps of the hero as he approached they all came running out before the cave and Eckhart said to Meimer I master here comes Siegfried and on his lance he bears the dragon's head now he will serve us as he has done the dragon I shall stay no longer what you cowardly fellows answered the angry master go back immediately into the cave and put the large hammer in the room to welcome him and brand the boy on his fair forehead with the red hot iron if he makes ought to do may replied Eckhart I will have nothing more to do with him unless he were to lie asleep before me so that I could drive a wedge into his head before he awaked but see here he comes in great anger we are twelve in number it is true but were we half as many more nothing could help us but the swiftness of our so saying Eckhart ran away the first into the thicket and all the others after him Meimer remained alone cursing and stamping I shall manage the boy however said he for many is the piece of hard iron I have softened so he went to meet Siegfried and made him welcome Siegfried however looked at him sternly and his anger darted like lightning from his eyes so that Meimer was look on one side while the hero thus answered his greeting none of you ye faithless ones shall be welcome to me I have burned the coals and I have paid his recompense to the companion you sent me and now I shall receive thine for Siegfried the swift the son of King Siegmund is not accustomed to be in anybody's debt Meimer was not frightened at this speech but said plainly perceive that thou art not so valiant as I thought thee and as thy fathers were so much anger about a young reptile which thy ancestors would have trodden in the dust or strangled without a word I thought the creature would give thee a little pastime for hence thou only asked it he would have helped thee in thy task with the fire which spouted like a fountain from his jaws I have burned many coals and have roasted many ahead of game whilst thou who thinkest thyself so wonder as bold art afraid of it and can't do nothing with the poor thing but kill it I barely believe thou has poked out its eyes when asleep that thou mightest cut off its head without danger like a lamb bound for the slaughter at these words Siegfried was still more wrath and said laughing distinctly to the reptile and my sword shall smite through thy bald head and send thee to thy companion the dragon that ye may amuse yourselves together and roast and burn coals as long as you please so saying he grasped his sword Mimer stepped back and said stretching out his right hand stay and only hear me I will offer thee a mens that shall ten times outweigh thy anger thou shalt gain as none has ever done before of all who ever wielded a sword or mounted a horse cease thou yonder between two oaks the blue mum with the rocky peaks there lives my eldest brother he watches in his cave over countless treasures such as no king possesses to attain them he murdered our father now he is accursed and crawls about in the form of a dragon I will conduct thee to him and will provide thee with good and trusty weapons when we have killed him we will share his treasures wait till I fetch thee the arms so saying he went straight into the cave and brought a helmet shield and armor the most beautiful sea-freed had ever seen these he gave the hero who was however silent and expressed not a word of pleasure look ye, this is the best of all swords I made it for heart to it the king in Holmgardt take it in both hands and stab my brother the dragon to the heart his treasures will then be ours then sea-freed took the sword in both hands raised it on high and said now I will try the sharpness of this sword whether it be as good as thou has said and thy faithless heart thou murderer of thy brother shall feel it first ere the last word was off his tongue mimer the false smith laid dead at his feet end of the ninth adventure the tenth adventure of sea-freed the dragon slayer by anonymous this LibriVox recording is in the public domain recording by Phil Schimpf sea-freed sees the great dragon and meets a king of the dwarves sea-freed now thought of pursuing his journey but he first tore down the walls and destroyed the entire cave where only weapons for fraud, treachery, and wickedness were forged he left not one stone upon another so that at the present day no one can say where stood the smithy of the giants where sea-freed the swift learned the art of a smith with joy as courage he advanced through the dark woods and the green and sunny meadows quickly he leaped over the roaring streams in the forest and nothing could stop his course but the country became daily more awful and terrific more steep and lofty were the jagged rocks more rapidly and fiercely fell the streams the grass and weeds in the meadows were so high that they rose far above the heads of his dogs and Bissa Prey ran about in troops the undaunted hero proceeded onwards till one day he heard his dogs howl mournfully he hastened up supposing that some venomous serpent or beast of prey had seized them but nothing of the kind was to be seen his dogs were standing in a meadow the damp grass of which was reeking with the heat of the sun on approaching near he saw that they were howling at some foot tracks which they had discovered the like of which he had never seen they showed two large paws with long claws and as he was inspecting them the sun suddenly became darkened and his dogs crept timidly up to him he was surprised at this for there was not a cloud in the sky for the first time in his life he felt alarmed when he saw a wild dragon flying over him in the air it was black as night but at every breath it drew a pointed flame of fire with jaws its head and neck were of horn and the internal fire shown through both with a dark red color and lighted its blue wings it flew slowly and steadily making vast circles with its long tail Siegfried now perceived to what creature the foot tracks belonged he stood under a tree and watched the flight of the monster for a long time and thought to himself the battles assist me now Yon creature is the fiend himself in a living form four of all the dragons depicted on my father's walls not one is equal to this granted but the victory to my good sword that I may fight a good fight against this son of darkness meanwhile the dragon flew quietly on and disappeared behind a mountain Siegfried now heard a sudden jingling of bells and the tramp of a horse he turned round and before him on the meadow was a tall, jet-black horse on which was seated a very little rider Siegfried at first thought it must be a child of three years old and wondered that any mother could be so careless as to let the poor infant ride about in the forest on a high horse so near the mighty dragon but when he saw the little rider nearer he was astonished to perceive that he had a beard of whiter than snow which reached to his girdle his limbs and whole frame moreover were not formed like those of a child but were in good proportion like those of a grown-up man he had a venerable appearance with his long beard and looked kindly and shrewdly from his little bright eyes both horse and rider were so beautifully and richly adorned that Siegfried had never seen the like in his father's castle of Königsberg the horse's trappings were adorned in front with gold and behind with silver the gold inlaid with white precious stones the silver with red while bells of gold and silver hung on the mane fifty on each side giving a pleasing sound thrown over the horse hung a cloth of velvet green as the grass of the meadow and spring on which was figured the whole earth round it ran a sky blue border representing the great ocean of the world in which swam fish of gold and silver and purple on the green gubbet were embroidered flowers of all kinds animals and men with pearls and diamonds all so small and so highly adorned that a day would not suffice to examine them the rider wore a silver helmet on top of which shown a carbuncle bright as the morning star while the cask itself was encircled by a golden crown his armor was of white steel over it was spread a broad royal mantle fastened at the waist by a girdle of diamonds in the form of a snake at his side hung a small sword with a handle of rubies above all glanced his shield appearing as if formed of diamonds in the middle shown the sun and around it the seven stars whilst between these ran circles of all the colors of the rainbow the shield had this power that when the bear held it before him he could see everything through it without being seen himself Siegfried stood mute and knew not what this strange appearance meant hailed to the valiant hero began the little stranger come hither under the trees thou needs not fear me I have no ill design against thee on the contrary I come to offer thee fidelity and service and my aid in every danger why said the hero smiling I have no fear of thee little man for thy proffered friendship however I thank thee although thy help may avail but little in danger thou could scarcely be seen in the high grass and when standing by my side a stork might snap thee up with sword and shield taking thee for a little frog at these words the little rider knew not what displeased and said thou art thyself less than the giants and yet thou thinkest to gain the victory over them true I am small of stature yet I know much more than thou dost for Siegfried the son of King Siegman knows not my name nor does he perhaps know my power from gratitude I come to lead thee out of the wood because thou hast slain the dragon for no I am named Euglain and I am a rich and potent king of the dwarves of these mountains well then King Euglain answered Siegfried show me where I can gain honor and my sword shall ever be devoted in gratitude to thee tis well answered the other and had I not come hither thy life would have been lost for the dragon who lives hereabouts is the most fearful of all creatures captive the beautiful king's daughter of the Rhine he took her from her father's castle and now she sits weeping and wringing her hands on the Drakkenstein no one but myself knows the way to the spot and she will never be released unless heaven takes pity on the poor maiden but let us haste or we are lost Siegfried was delighted at hearing these words he sprang from amid the trees smoked three times with his sword a stone which he cut asunder like a sponge and then exclaimed may the sword of my enemies thus pierce my body if I depart hence till I have fought with the dragon for the maiden if that be the case give me leave said the dwarf in alarm to quit the wood and fly hence for hence thou traverse the whole earth from east to west and overcome all strong men and all monsters still must thou leave the maiden to the dragon on the rock nay, not so little man thou must show me thy fidelity and give me thy assistance and help me to win her that cannot be replied the dwarf if thou wilt rush upon thy death thou must do so alone I will no longer keep thee company but if thou wilt follow me I will give thee gold and pearls and costly jewels magic weapons and roots of healing powers and will teach thee likewise many a maxim of ancient wisdom but never will I guide thee to the Drakkenstein so saying the little man gave his horse the golden spur but Siegfried seized the bridle and thus in anger spoke the hero thou must show me the way or thou rites not home with thy head upon thy shoulders then he seized the dwarf by the beard but the little man strove and struggled with such force that Siegfried could not sufficiently fire his prodigious strength a magic ring gave the dwarf his supernatural power the sweat stood upon Siegfried's forehead in great drops but still he was unable to master his tiny opponent and the contest lasted till in the struggle the ring fell from the dwarf's finger then Siegfried seized the mannequin by his right foot threw him from the saddle and held him head downwards against a stone saying on this stone I will dash out thy obstinate brains if thou lead me not to the Drakken but the dwarf cried out piteously and said calm thy anger thou proud hero I will advise thee as well as I am able if thou wilt only spare my life with this Siegfried was satisfied and set the dwarf upon his legs again End of the Tenth Adventure