s and mantle of ermine. She walked among her maids as the
moon glides in the heavenly azure attended by the radiant stars. With
tears in her lovely eyes she turned to her brother; but Halfdan clasped
her hand in Frithiof's, and thus gave his sister, the fair Ingeborg, to
the friend of their childhood, her best beloved, the noble Frithiof.

THE STORY OF BEOWULF

The Coming of Sheaf

Once upon a time, many, many years ago, a boat came sailing over the
sea to Denmark. In it were shields and rings of gold, banners of
bright colours, bracelets, drinking-cups, and helmets. With sails
gaily spread the breezes bore the boat gently over the deep blue sea.
No sailor was seen at the oars.

"What can it be?" cried the people as they came to the shore,
wondering; "is it a ship of earth, or have the gods sent it?" They
asked one another many questions, but knew not what to think.

Nearer and nearer came the beautiful boat; bright shone the coloured
sails and golden armour. Many were the treasures borne therein, but
loveliest and most precious was--a little baby boy! He smiled at the
man who found him, and lifted up his tiny hands as if asking to be
taken.

"A prince!" cried the people; "we have found our prince! The gods have
sent us a king to rule over us and to conquer our enemies." For at
that time the Danes had no king, and were glad to see the beautiful
child who so strangely came to their shores.

The ship with all its treasures was carefully guarded, and the boy, who
was called Sheaf, was brought up as a prince. In due time he became
king and fought many battles and won many victories over the robbers on
land and sea. Over many noble thanes did Sheaf, the king, rule; all
obeyed him and paid tribute to him.

Nor did God withhold from him a son to comfort the people. The boy was
strong and handsome and gave great joy to the heart of his father.
Over many lands shone the glory of the young prince. So shall a young
hero act that when he is old all his friends shall praise him. He
shall fight for his people and by praiseworthy deeds shall he flourish.

Now when the time came for Sheaf to die, he asked his companions to
bear him to the shore. There stood the brave ship with gleaming prow
and widespread sails, eager to go. Sad and yet glad at heart were the
heroes who bore the king to the death-boat--glad to honour a brave
king, and sad that he must leave them.

On the king's bosom they placed trea