Page:Gummere (1909) The Oldest English Epic.djvu/158

142 and gaze on that hoard ’neath the hoary rock, Wiglaf loved, now the worm lies low, sleeps, heart-sore, of his spoil bereaved. And fare in haste. I would fain behold the gorgeous heirlooms, golden store, have joy in the jewels and gems, lay down softlier for sight of this splendid hoard my life and the lordship I long have held.”

 

I have heard that swiftly the son of Weohstan at wish and word of his wounded king,— war-sick warrior,—woven mail-coat, battle-sark, bore ’neath the barrow’s roof. Then the clansman keen, of conquest proud, passing the seat, saw store of jewels and glistening gold the ground along; by the wall were marvels, and many a vessel in the den of the dragon, the dawn-flier old: unburnished bowls of bygone men reft of richness; rusty helms of the olden age; and arm-rings many wondrously woven.—Such wealth of gold, booty from barrow, can burden with pride each human wight: let him hide it who will!— His glance too fell on a gold-wove banner 