Celebrating with sumble in the mead hall is presented as a time to thank Deities, affirm purpose, and honor those who are gathered. The crowd is already in a good mood when Wealhtheow, the Queen, arrives. It is on top of page 42 and 43 where the Old English and translation first uses the word, 'sumble'. "Symbel ond sele-ful" is translated as, "with festive cheer".

The arrival of Wealhtheow raises the level of the cheer and also the formal intent of the celebration. She is presented as gracious and richly adorned. She 'observes the courtesies' that is, she keeps the time-honored actions of the high presence that a woman brings to the gathering. She graciously salutes the gathering. It is Wealhtheow who offers a drink to each person.

This post will be improved as a study soon. For now, I want to publish a post that expresses my wish for the coming year to bring my Kindred frith and weal.