A CUP she gave him, with kindly greeting

and winsome words. Of wounden gold,

she offered, to honor him, arm-jewels twain,

corselet and rings, and of collars the noblest

that ever I knew the earth around.

Ne’er heard I so mighty, ’neath heaven’s dome,

a hoard-gem of heroes, since Hama bore

to his bright-built burg the Brisings’ necklace,

jewel and gem casket. — Jealousy fled he,

Eormenric’s hate: chose help eternal.

Hygelac Geat, grandson of Swerting,

on the last of his raids this ring bore with him,

under his banner the booty defending,

the war-spoil warding; but Wyrd o’erwhelmed him

what time, in his daring, dangers he sought,

feud with Frisians. Fairest of gems

he bore with him over the beaker-of-waves,

sovran strong: under shield he died.

Fell the corpse of the king into keeping of Franks,

gear of the breast, and that gorgeous ring;

weaker warriors won the spoil,

after gripe of battle, from Geatland’s lord,

and held the death-field.

Din rose in hall.

Wealhtheow spake amid warriors, and said:—

“This jewel enjoy in thy jocund youth,

Beowulf lov’d, these battle-weeds wear,

a royal treasure, and richly thrive!

Preserve thy strength, and these striplings here

counsel in kindness: requital ............