Edwald and Froda had their own almost shuddering thoughts
concerning it, which, however, neither imparted to the other.

The kettle-drums rolled, the trumpets sounded, and led by the
aged duke, Hildegardis advanced, richly apparelled, but more
dazzling through the brightness of her own beauty. She
stepped forward beneath the arches of the golden bower, and
bowed to the assembly. The knights bent low, and the feeling
rushed into many a heart, "There is no man on earth who can
deserve a bride so queenly." When Froda bowed his head, it
seemed to him as if the golden radiance of Aslauga'a tresses
floated before his sight; and his spirit rose in joy and pride
that his lady held him worthy to be so often reminded of her.

And now the tournament began. At first the knights strove
with blunted swords and battle-axes; then they ran their
course with lances man to man; but at last they divided into
two equal parties, and a general assault began, in which every
one was allowed to use at his own will either sword or lance.
Froda and Edwald equally surpassed their antagonists, as
(measuring each his own strength and that of his friend) they
had foreseen. And now it must be decided by a single combat
with lances to whom the highest prize of victory should
belong. Before this trial began, they rode slowly together
into the middle of the course, and consulted where each should
take his place. "Keep you your guiding-star still before your
sight," said Froda, with a smile; "the like gracious help will
not be wanting to me." Edwald looked round astonished for the
lady of whom his friend seemed to speak, but Froda went on, "I
have done wrong in hiding aught from you, but after the