the king's men.

Too old to wield a sword in person, Hrothgar offered a princely reward
to whoever would rid his country of this terrible scourge. But,
although many warriors gladly undertook the task, the monster proved
too strong for all, and none save a minstrel--who hid in one corner of
the hall--ever succeeded in escaping from his clutches. This minstrel,
after seeing Grendel feed upon his companions, was so impressed by
the sight, that he composed a song about it, which he sang wherever he
went, and once repeated for the entertainment of King Higelac and his
nephew Beowulf. In answer to their eager questions, the bard averred
the monster still existed and invariably invaded the hall when a feast
was held there. This was enough to arouse in Beowulf a burning desire
to visit Denmark and rid the world of this scourge. Knowing his nephew
was very brave and having had proof of his endurance (for the young
man had once in the course of a swimming match, stayed in the water
five whole days and nights, killing many sea monsters who came to
attack him), Higelac gladly allowed him to depart with fourteen chosen
companions. Thus Beowulf set out "over the Swan-Road" for Denmark, to
offer his services to the king.

The foamy-necked floater fanned by the breeze,
Likest a bird, glided the waters,
Till twenty and four hours thereafter
The twist-stemmed vessel had travelled such distance
That the sailing-men saw the sloping embankments,
The sea-cliffs gleaming, precipitous mountains,
Nesses enormous: they were nearing the limits
At the end of the ocean.

On seeing a vessel with armed men approach their shores, the Danish
coast guards challenged the new-comers, who rejoined their intentions
were purely friendly, and begged to be led to the king. There Beowulf
and his attendants--after paying their respects to Hrothgar--offered
their services to rid him of the terrible scourge which had preyed so
long upon his people. On hearing this, the king immediately ordered a
feast prepared, and at its close allowed Beowulf, at his request, to
remain alone in the hall with his men. Aware that no weapon could
pierce the armed hide of the uncanny monster, Beowulf--who had the
strength of thirty men--laid aside his armor and prepared to grapple
with Grendel by main strength when he appeared.

Then the brave-mooded hero bent to his slumber,
The pillow received the cheek of the noble;
And many a martial mere-thane atte