take courage. Remember thy boast that thy valor shall
never fail thee in thy lifetime, and defend thyself now with all thy
might, and I will help thee."

But the other warriors were afraid to follow him, so that Beowulf and
Wiglaf stood alone to face the dragon.

As soon as the monster advanced upon them, Wiglaf's wooden shield was
burnt away by the flames, so that he was forced to take refuge behind
Beowulf's iron shield; and this time when Beowulf struck with his sword,
it was shivered to pieces. Then the dragon flung himself upon him and
caught him up in his arms, crushing him till he lay senseless and
covered with wounds.

But now Wiglaf showed his valor and strength, and smote the monster with
such mighty blows that at last the fire coming forth from him began to
abate somewhat. Then Beowulf came once more to his senses, and drawing
his deadly knife, struck with it from beneath; and at last the force of
the blows from the two noble kinsmen felled the fierce fire-dragon and
he sank down dead beside them.

But Beowulf's wounds were very great, and he knew that the joys of life
were ended for him and that death was very near. So while Wiglaf with
wonderful tenderness unfastened his helmet for him and refreshed him
with water, he spoke, saying:

"Though I am sick with mortal wounds, there is yet some comfort
remaining for me. For I have governed my people for fifty winters and
kept them safe from invading foes; yet have not sought out quarrels nor
led my kinsmen to dire slaughter when there was no need. Therefore the
Ruler of all men will not blame me when my life departs from my body.

"And now go thou quickly, dear Wiglaf, to spy out the treasure within
the cave, so that I may see what wealth I have won for my people before
I die."

So Wiglaf went into the cave and there he saw many precious jewels, old
vessels, helmets, gold armlets and other treasures, which excelled in
beauty and number any that mankind has ever known. Moreover, high above
the treasure flapped a marvelous gilded standard, from which came a ray
of light which lit up all the cave.

Then Wiglaf seized as much as he could carry of the precious spoils, and
taking the standard also, hastened back to his lord, dreading lest he
should find him already dead.

Beowulf was very near his life's end, but when Wiglaf had again revived
him with water, he had strength to speak once more.

[Illustration: SIEGFRIED CAME OFF VICTOR IN EVERY ENCOUNTER]