Siegfried fain I would behold!
GUNTHER
But how can he be found?
[A horn on the stage, from the background on the left, very loud but distant.
HAGEN
[Listens and turns to Gunther.
Merrily hunting
After renown
Across the world
As through a wood,
Belike in his chase he will come,
To the Gibich's realm on the Rhine.
GUNTHER
Heartily welcome were he.
[A horn on the stage, nearer, but still distant. Both listen.
A horn from the Rhine I hear.
HAGEN
[Looks down the river and calls towards the back.
A man and horse on board a boat!
His horn how gaily he winds!
[A horn on the stage sounds nearer. Gunther stops half-way listening.
See the leisurely stroke,
And the indolent arm
Against the stream
Urging the boat!
So skilful a hand
On the swinging oar
Can be but his
Who the dragon slew:—
It is Siegfried—surely no other!
GUNTHER
Will he go by?
HAGEN
[Making a trumpet of his hands, calls towards the river.
Hoiho! Blithe hero,
Whither bound?
SIEGFRIED [From the distance.
I seek the son of Gibich.
HAGEN
I bid thee welcome to Gunther's hall.
[Siegfried in a boat appears at the shore.
This way! Stop here and land!
Siegfried brings his boat to the shore. Hagen makes it fast with the chain. Siegfried springs ashore with his horse. Gunther has come down and joined Hagen.
HAGEN
Hail, Siegfried, hero bold!
[Gutrune gazes at Siegfried from the throne in astonishment. Gunther prepares to offer him friendly greetings. All stand fixed in silent mutual contemplation.
SIEGFRIED
[Leaning on his horse, remains quietly standing by the boat.
Who is Gibich's son?
GUNTHER
I am he thou dost seek.
SIEGFRIED
Thy fame has reached me
From the Rhine;
Now fight with me,
Or be my friend.
GUNTHER
Be thou mine;
Thou art welcome!
SIEGFRIED