September 22, 1482
The fragrance of sea-salt hung in the air by the Grey Havens. Samwise Gamgee lifted his head up and gazed into the sky, watching the gulls wheel around. He turned to try and see the Tower Hills, where he gave the Red Book to Elanor.
It seemed like yesterday when he was reading stories to her, about Frodo, and the Ring. Now she was all grown up, probably reading tales to her own little ones.
Sam wiped a tear away that threatened to roll down his cheek.
How could it be, that when he knew that he would never find healing in the Shire, he was heartbroken to leave it?
Frodo's words came back to him, and he understood how his master felt, all those years before.
"My dear Sam, you can not always be torn in two, you were meant to be solid and whole, and you will be."
Sam felt like he had been healed, at least for a little while, but now the burden was back.
His eyes stared out at the sea, trying to catch some glimpse of Valinor.
He stared out with determination, with love, and with sadness.
Sam knew what was to be done.
He lifted his foot to place onto the wooden floor of the boat. . . . . .
Lay down Night is falling, Sleep now They are calling, Why do you weep Soon you will see, Safe in my arms What can you see on the horizon? And all will turn to silver glass Hope fades Through shadows falling Don't say White shores are calling And you'll be here in my arms What can you see on the horizon?
Your sweet and weary head
You have come to journey's end
Dream of the ones that came before
From across the distant shore
What are those tears upon your face
All of your fears will pass away
You're only sleeping
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea a pale moon rises
The ships have come to carry you home
A light on the water, All souls pass
Into the world of night
Out of memory and time
We have come now to the end
You and I will meet again
Just sleeping
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea
a pale moon rises
The ships have come to carry you home
And all will turn to silver glass
A light on the water
Grey Ships pass
Into the West.