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Support the Monkey! Tell All your Friends and Teachers |
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Support the Monkey! Tell All your Friends and Teachers |
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42 Then the bairn of Halfdane, to Beowulf he gave A banneret of gold-work, broidered on a stave, A helmet and a byrnie, as meed of victory. And a glorious jewelled sword many there did see Borne unto the Hero. Standing forth on floor, Beowulf received the cup; that warrior-band before, He needed not to suffer shame for these gifts of price. I have not known many to give in friendlier wise To others on the ale-bench golden treasures four! Across the crown of the helmet, a ridge outside there rose, Of wires interwoven, to guard the head from blows, Lest the files’- remainders, the battle-hardened glaive, Too fiercely might scathe it, what time the brave Behind his shield should hie him forth against his foes. Bade then the jarlmen’s Bulwark bring adown the hall Horses eight, with golden plate upon the cheeks of all. On one a saddle rested with jewel-work replete, Shining with deft devices-that was the battle-seat Of Hrothgar, the high King, when Halfdane’s son would fare Forth unto the sword-play; and in the vanward ne’er Failed his famous valor, while round him fell the slain! And then the Lord of Ingwines to Beowulf gave the twain, The horses and the weapons, as his to have and hold- Bade him well enjoy them! Hrothgar, the bold, The Hoard-Guard of heroes, so manfully paid back, With horses and with treasures, Beowulf’s attack, That none who’ll speak the truth aright can blame for any lack. |
