XVI

That swords-for-the-battle fight-hardened might fail Boldly to harm him, when the hero proceeded Forth against foemen. The defender of earls then Commanded that eight steeds with bridles Gold-plated, gleaming, be guided to hallward, Inside the building; on one of them stood then An art-broidered saddle embellished with jewels; ’Twas the sovereign’s seat, when the son of King Healfdene Was pleased to take part in the play of the edges; The famous one’s valor ne’er failed at the front when Slain ones were bowing. And to Beowulf granted The prince of the Ingwins, power over both, O’er war-steeds and weapons; bade him well to enjoy them. In so manly a manner the mighty-famed chieftain, Hoard-ward of heroes, with horses and jewels War-storms requited, that none e’er condemneth Who willeth to tell truth with full justice.