music within; and Siegfried's heart was stirred with wonder
as he listened. The man knocked softly at the door, and the
music ceased.

"Who comes to break into Regin's rest at such a time as
this?" said a rough voice within.

"A youth who calls himself Siegfried," answered the man. "He
says that he comes from Mimer's smithy, and he would see
you, my master."

"Let him come in," said the voice.

Siegfried passed through the low door, and into the room
beyond; and so strange was the sight that met him that he
stood for a while in awe, for never in so lowly a dwelling
had treasures so rich been seen. Jewels sparkled from the
ceiling; rare tapestry covered the walls; and on the floor
were heaps of ruddy gold and silver, still unfashioned. And
in the midst of all this wealth stood Regin, the king of the
forest, the greatest of charcoal-men. And a strange old man
he was, wrinkled and gray and beardless; but out of his eyes
sharp glances gleamed of a light that was not human, and his
heavy brow and broad forehead betokened wisdom and shrewd
cunning. And he welcomed Siegfried kindly for Mimer's sake,
and set before him a rich repast of venison, and wild honey,
and fresh white bread, and luscious grapes. And, when the
meal was finished, the boy would have told his errand, but
Regin stopped him.