But from greatness of soul ye sought for King Hrothgar.” Then the strength-famous earlman answer rendered, The proud-mooded Wederchief replied to his question, Hardy ’neath helmet: “Higelac’s mates are we; Beowulf hight I. To the bairn of Healfdene, The famous folk-leader, I freely will tell To thy prince my commission, if pleasantly hearing He’ll grant we may greet him so gracious to all men.” Wulfgar replied then (he was prince of the Wendels, His boldness of spirit was known unto many, His prowess and prudence): “The prince of the Scyldings, The friend-lord of Danemen, I will ask of thy journey, The giver of rings, as thou urgest me do it, The folk-chief famous, and inform thee early What answer the good one mindeth to render me.” He turned then hurriedly where Hrothgar was sitting, Old and hoary, his earlmen attending him; The strength-famous went till he stood at the shoulder Of the lord of the Danemen, of courteous thanemen The custom he minded. Wulfgar addressed then His friendly liegelord: “Folk of the Geatmen O’er the way of the waters are wafted hither,