Beowulf
Verses 1 - 25
Attend!
We have heard of the thriving of the throne of Denmark, how the folk-kings flourished in former days, how the royal athelings earned that glory.
Was it not it not Scyld Shefing that shook the halls, took mead benches, taught encroaching foes to fear him - who, found in childhood, lacked clothing? Yet he lived and prospered, grew in strength and stature under the heavens until the clans settles in the sea-coasts neighboring over the whale-road all must obey him and give tribute. He was a good king.
A boy child was afterwards born to Scyld, a young child in hall-yard, a hope for the people, sent them by God; the greifs long endured wew not unknown to Him, the harshness of years without lord. Therefore the Life-bestowing Wielder of Glory granted them this blessing. Through the northern lands the name of Beow, the son of Scyld, sprang widely.
For in youth an atheling should so use his virtue, give with a free hand while in his father's house, that in old age, when enemies gather, established friends will stand by him and serve him gladly. It is by glorious action that a man comes by honour in any people.