The liege-kinsman worthy Of Higelac minded his speech of theevening,Stood he up straight and stoutly did seize him. His fingers crackled; the giant was out ward,The earl stepped farther. The famous one minded To flee away farther, if he found an occasion,And off and away, avoiding delay,To fly to the fen-moors; he fully was ware of The strength of his grapple in the grip of the foeman.