sures of gold and silver; rings,
shining stones, cloth of gold, shields, and drinking-cups. Indeed, he
took away treasures as many as he brought with him when, years before,
he had come, a tiny child, to the country of the Danes. Out into the
mist sailed the proud ship with its precious load never to return. No
man saw it again, and whither it went none can tell.

The Young Beowulf

The sons and grandsons of the great Sheaf ruled the country of the
Danes until the time of Hrothgar. Hrothgar was king of the Danes when
Beowulf, the hero of our story, was a prince in the country of the
Goths.

The young Beowulf grew up in the court of his uncle, Hygelac, king of
the Goths. Fond of all games and manly sports was he, and he learned
to throw the heavy hammer, to shoot, to row, to swim, and to ride.
Running, wrestling, and hunting were daily exercises of the young men,
and Beowulf could excel them all in every trial of skill. Soon the men
at court called Beowulf their leader, and they loved and honoured him.

Although Beowulf had won many victories at home, and his people knew
him to be brave and strong, yet he longed to do some great deed which
should make his name known over other lands. The time came when he had
his wish and when all his strength and courage were tested. For a
harper from the land of the Danes came to the court of Hygelac and told
a sad story.

The Harper's Story

"In the land of the Danes lives Hrothgar, a great and wise king; but
sadness clouds his brow and tears dim his eyes. Years ago all was joy
and glory. Hrothgar had conquered all his foes and made them friends.
Much wealth had he added to his country's treasures, and many warriors
gathered round him, glad to hail him leader and king.

"Hrothgar loved peace more than war and was glad when the earls were
his friends, and he said: 'I will build a great hall, a house of joy
for all my friends. This shall be larger than any hall earth has seen.
Here I will bring all my war treasures. The walls shall be hung with
banners of bright colours and decked with shields and swords. Tables
shall be spread and guests shall always be welcomed.'

"The great king spoke, and many workmen gathered to build the hall.
Large and strong it rose, a wonder for all the people. The king named
the hall Heorot, and here was every one made welcome. The mead-cup was
passed, the king gave presents of shining rings, and joy and laughter
filled the