Beowulf returns to Heorot after fighting in an underwater cave with Grendel's mother. He tells the tale of the adventure to Hrothgar and presents him with the hilt of a great sword he has found in the cave. The blade of this sword had melted after Beowulf cut off Grendel's head. Hrothgar then gives Beowulf a speech against hubris. In his speech he uses Heremod as an example of what can happen if pride takes over a leader's heart. After the speech there is another feast. The next morning Beowulf returns Hrunting to Unferth. Beowulf thanks him for the loan but does not tell him that the sword's blade failed in combat.