Then, taking Brunhilde in his arms, he said:--

"I grant your wish, my child. I shall encircle the place with magic
fire. Only he who knows no fear may claim you for his bride."

Then Wotan kissed Brunhilde upon each eyelid, and she fell fast asleep.

Gently he bore her to a mossy mound beneath a spreading fir tree.

Laying her down, he looked long and lovingly upon her sweet, brave face.

He drew her helmet close over her eyes, and laid her shield upon her
breast.

The flowers went to sleep.

Brunhilde's noble steed lay down and slept.

"Farewell, my child, most brave and beautiful!
Thou life and light of all my heart, farewell!
Pride of my soul, farewell, a long farewell!"


THE MAGIC FIRE

Wotan strode a few steps away from where Brunhilde slept, then struck
the rock with his mighty spear.

Red flames shot up, leaping almost to the sky. They were magic flames
and would not harm any one.