Might bear to Beowulf the bumper o’errunning; She greeted the Geat-prince, God she did thank, Most wise in her words, that her wish was accomplished, That in any of earlmen she ever should look for Solace in sorrow. He accepted the beaker, Battle-bold warrior, at Wealhtheow’s giving, Then equipped for combat quoth he in measures, Beowulf spake, offspring of Ecgtheow: “I purposed in spirit when I mounted the ocean, When I boarded my boat with a band of my liegemen, I would work to the fullest the will of your people Or in foe’s-clutches fastened fall in the battle. Deeds I shall do of daring and prowess, Or the last of my life-days live in this mead-hall.” These words to the lady were welcome and pleasing, The boast of the Geatman; with gold trappings broidered Went the freeborn folk-queen her fond-lord to sit by. Then again as of yore was heard in the building Courtly discussion, conquerors’ shouting, Heroes were happy, till Healfdene’s son would Go to his slumber to seek for refreshing; For the horrid hell-monster in the hall-building knew he A fight was determined, since the light of the sun they

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