When Beowulf heard that his men were driven from their burning homes,
his heart was hot with anger. He ordered a war-board of iron made, for
well he knew that forest-wood could not help him against fire. All the
foes of the kingdom Beowulf had turned to friends, and for many years
had ruled the Goths in peace and joy. But now he must go against the
fearful dragon who was guarding the hoard of treasures.
The man who had taken the cup showed them the path, for he alone knew
the way. When they came to the mound near the great sea-waves, Beowulf
said farewell to his warriors. For him alone was the fight with the
enemy of his people, the fire-breathing dragon.
[Illustration: THE DRAGON]
Sad was the hero at heart, for he knew this was his last fight. "I
have dared many battles in my youth, and I will now, as safe guardian
of my people, seek out this wicked creature in his earth-hall."
Beowulf then greeted each of his men, saying: "I would not bear a
weapon against this dragon, but would fight him as I did Grendel, only
I must expect hot fire. Await me near this mound. This is a battle
for me, not for you or for any other man. I shall obtain the gold, or
war shall conquer me, your lord."
Then the bold king, trusting in his good sword, went forth to battle,
with his helmet and his shield. When he came to the mound by the sea
he saw an arch of stone, and a stream flowing from the mound. The
water was boiling hot and he could not get near the hoard unburned.
Then the brave war-lord shouted to the dragon. First came forth from
the mountain the hot breath of the dreadful monster. The earth shook
and flames burst forth. The good king drew his sword and waited. When
the dragon came, Beowulf strode at it with his sword, and fierce was
the conflict. The hero knew that he would fall in the battle, but he
would kill the dragon first. It is a brave man who enters such a
deadly contest.
Beowulf's men had sought safety, but one of them felt that he must help
his lord in this hour of deadly battle. He said: "Now Beowulf, our
great lord, has need of us. Although he is the greatest of warriors
and wishes to do this brave deed alone, yet he has need of our swords!
Let us help our warlike leader. For me, I well know that Beowulf shall
not fall alone."