The Way to the Pool
Then the brave Beowulf replied: “Better is it for every one to avenge his friend than that he greatly mourn. Each of us must await the end of his life. Let them who can, work high deeds of honour. Let us go quickly to seek Grendel’s mother. I promise you she shall not escape; neither in the sea nor in the bosom of the earth, in the mountain wood nor in the ocean’s ground.”
Then was the heart of the old king glad to hear these brave words. Horses were brought out and troops of men set forth towards the home of the dreadful shadows. The road was narrow and dark, an unknown way. Soon they saw the mountain-trees leaning over the rock, a joyous wood. The water below was dark and gloomy. Many strange creatures could be seen moving in the deep pool.
Now Beowulf clad himself in his war-gear. The coat of rings was about his breast so that no grip could injure his life. On his head he wore a bright helmet wrought with strength so that no battle-axe could break it. Then a prince of Hrothgar gave him a famous sword named Hrunting. This was one of the old treasures. Never in battle had it failed those who dared to go in ways of terror. This was not the first time that it had done brave deeds.
Then said Beowulf: “Now, O king, I am ready for my journey. Bear in mind what you have said—if I for your need should lose my life, that you would be to me as a father. If, then, war takes me off, be a friend to my comrades. Send to Hygelac the treasures you have given to me, so that he may know that I found a good king in you. Now with the good sword Hrunting will I seek out the foe.”
With these words Beowulf leaped into the lake.