And a young prince must be prudent like that, giving freely while his father lives. Behaviour that's admired is the path to power among people everywhere.

And a young prince must be prudent like that,
giving freely while his father lives
so that afterwards in age when fighting starts
steadfast companions will stand by him
and hold the line. Behaviour that’s admired
is the path to power among people everywhere.

– Beowulf, Seamus Heaney (trans.)

Lines 20-25: An important custom on road to leadership is the giving of gifts by young princes in exchange for loyalty.

Beowulf Quotes