Hrothgar discoursed (to the hall-building went he, He stood by the pillar, saw the steep-rising hall-roof Gleaming with gold-gems, and Grendel his hand there): “For the sight we behold now, thanks to the Wielder Early be offered! Much evil I bided, Snaring from Grendel: God can e’er ’complish Wonder on wonder, Wielder of Glory! But lately I reckoned ne’er under heaven Comfort to gain me for any of sorrows, While the handsomest of houses horrid with bloodstain Gory uptowered; grief had offfrightened Each of the wise ones who weened not that ever The folk-troop’s defences ’gainst foes they should strengthen, ’Gainst sprites and monsters. Through the might of the Wielder A doughty retainer hath a deed now accomplished Which erstwhile we all with our excellent wisdom Failed to perform. May affirm very truly What woman soever in all of the nations Gave birth to the child, if yet she surviveth, That the long-ruling Lord was lavish to herward In the birth of the bairn. Now, Beowulf dear, Most excellent hero, I’ll love thee in spirit