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Chapter 26 Hertig's Escape
Hertig followed the hobbits through narrow tracks known only to them. He had ceased caring where he went as long as it wasn't back to the Lockholes. The going was rough for someone as tall as he and several times he was forced to crawl through low hanging tunnels of brush, but he didn't complain. He was eager to get out of these dismal woods!
Finally, they came to what appeared to Hertig as a round door built into a hillside. "Wait here," said the leader and disappeared inside the door while the others waited outside. Hertig leaned wearily against the side of the hill, closing his eyes in exhaustion. The other hobbits continued to watch him warily. A short while later, the first hobbit returned and beckoned the others to enter. This was one of the many entrances into the Took's Great Smials. This one, one of the lesser entryways, led into a low hallway, high enough for the hobbits , but awkwardly low for someone of Hertig's height. Bent low, the Rider clumsily followed the hobbits through the passageway and into a large chamber. It was empty of furnishings except for a hobbit sized table and chairs. Seated at this table was an elderly yet fierce looking hobbit. Several other hobbits stood nearby armed with bows. They all watched Hertig suspiciously.
"This the Man you spoke of, Ferdinand?" the Elder asked, looking Hertig up and down.
"Aye, Thain, that's right," replied the leader of the hobbits that had brought Hertig in. "Claims he was locked up with Ol' Will and knows about Pippin., Merry , and Frodo."
"Hmm," grunted the older hobbit, still peering at Hertig. "Well, Man, what have you to say for yourself. What do you know about Pippin?"
The room was almost high enough for Hertig to stand erect, so he was slightly more comfortable. He sighed and tried to look less bedraggled. "My name is Hertig from Rohan. I am one of the Rohirrim or Riders. I met Pippin Took after the Battle Helms Deep. He and his kinsmen, Merry Brandybuck were instrumental in the downfall of the evil White Wizard, Saruman. Later, Pippin fought bravely defending the city of Minas Tirith from the Black Lord's horde of orcs. He saved the life of Lord Faramir, the steward's son. Master Pippin also fought at the Battle of the Black Gates and as I understand, was nearly slain by a troll. But, he has since recovered and he, Merry Brandybuck and Frodo Baggins, as well as Samwise Gamgee are counted as heroes of Middle Earth." He paused here as the hobbits in the room began to talk excitedly among themselves.
"You're sure it was Pippin who did all this?" asked the old hobbit incredulously. "And Merry?"
Hertig gave a small laugh. "Aye, my lord," he replied. "Even the smallest can make a difference."
With that, the Thain gave a loud, booming laugh. "By george!" he boomed, "Who would have thought that young Pippin and Merry would have turned themselves around to such a degree! I'll have you know, sir, that they were known more for their mischief than brave deeds!" He grinned at Hertig, "Pippin is my son and it pleases me to hear he has done so well!" He then turned to one of the hobbits behind him. "Bring food and drink for this Rider from Rohan," he ordered. "He looks as if he will fall over any minute!" He turned back to Hertig. "Please, sir, sit. I'm afraid we have no chairs to fit such as yourself, but I suspect even the floor will be better than standing!"
With a grateful sigh, Hertig slid to the floor and leaned against the wall. "Thank you, my lord."
"Now, now!" cried the Thain in his loud voice, "None of the "my lord" business! We've no lord here, young fellow. Now, tell me more of why you are here. Ferdinand here says you claim the Mayor sent you."
Hertig nodded then his face lit up eagerly as two hobbits arrived with food and drink. The Thain nodded for him to go ahead and eat. Still, Hertig managed to get his story out between bites. He finished his food and his story almost at the same time.
"And so, Fredegar Bolger said that Sam believed Frodo and the others would be arriving soon. The Mayor hoped that I would be able to intercept them and warn them of the troubles here and perhaps bring help to oust the troublemakers." Hertig sighed contentedly as he downed his mug of ale. The Thain had a ready supply and didn't care about the Chief's orders to turn in all alcoholic beverages.
"Well, well, well," said the Thain thoughtfully. "That is quite a tale indeed. The Mayor is right. We don't want Pippin, Merry and Frodo to walk into a trap. Lotho always despised Bilbo and Frodo and things would go ill for Master Baggins. As for bringing back help. Hmph." The Thain gave a snort of disdain. "All we really need is someone strong enough to unite the hobbits against these ruffians. We certainly outnumber 'em. We've made a stand, but there aren't enough Tooks to do it all. We need the rest of the countryside to rise as well. We've been bottled up here in the Green Hill country for far too long. If young Pippin and Merry have been involved in all the battles you claim, perhaps they'll be just what we need to get things moving!"
The Thain sat silently for a moment, then turned to Ferdinand. "We will let Master Hertig here have a good night's rest, then you can lead him across the Brandywine to Buckland. Take him to my sister, Esmeralda at Brandy Hall. I'm sure she can arrange a guide to take our friend here to Bree." Ferdinand nodded. The Thain turned his attention back to Hertig.
"Buckland is across the river," he explained. "They're Merry's family although Merry is also my nephew. They'll get you to Bree well enough. In the meantime, I will arrange for a bath and clean clothes for you. Not sure what we have that might fit, but perhaps the ladies can come up with something. At the very least, we can wash what you're wearing!" He stood up. "I will see you in the morning. Sleep well."
Hertig bowed. "Thank you, sir," he replied gratefully and watched as the Thain strode from the room. A couple of hours later found him comfortably situated in a chamber deep within the Smials. The hobbits had laid thick cushions on the floor and found him at least a shirt large enough for him to sleep in while his clothes were cleaned. He felt much better than he had in a long time and began to hope that perhaps his mission would be successful.
The next morning, after a filling breakfast, Ferdinand led Hertig through the deepest forests of the Green Hills towards the Stockbrook. This small river fed into the Brandywine and would be their guide to the river. They didn't dare take the Stock Road as Men often patrolled there. Neither Hertig nor his hobbit guide spoke much. Ferdinand was constantly watching for any sign of ruffians lurking about. It was still cold and drizzly, so he was fairly confident that their numbers would be few. Hertig was still weary, but eager to be free of the Shire.
The two traveled quickly and by nightfall, they had reached the banks of the Brandywine. They had spied several scouting parties of Lotho's men, but had managed to avoid being seen. "Can you swim?" Ferdinand whispered as the carefully surveyed the banks of the river. Although Hertig had little experience with water, he was able to swim reasonably well. Ferdinand nodded. "Good. The water is not too swift here," he explained, "Saradoc usually has a few men stationed along the river keeping watch. I'm not too fond of swimming myself, but I'll go over with you and see to your safe passage."
The two then cautiously made their way to the river. It was dark now and as the two removed their clothing, Hertig could feel the bitter wind bite his bare flesh. The water would be even worse. Fortunately, it wasn't a difficult passage and soon the two were safely on the on the other side. As Ferdinand had hoped, they were soon intercepted by one of the many Brandybucks living in the area. With Ferdinand along to explain things, it wasn't long before Hertig and his guide, Ilberic were on their way to Bree. Now, if only he could get there in time.
--------------------------------------------- It was early in the morning when Hertig and Ilberic spied Bree in the distance. They had been traveling nonstop a day and a night, so urgent was Hertig's errand. They moved silently and cautiously as Ilberic worried about brigands and footpads that frequented the area around Bree. "I will leave you here," said the hobbit as they ate a scant breakfast. "I don't like leaving my family alone during these bad times and I think you should be able to reach the town by this afternoon with no trouble. The robbers avoid the daylight." Hertig nodded and after thanking his guide, the Rider set out along the Great East Road to Bree.
It was well past noon when Hertig finally made his exhausted way into the town of Bree. The gatekeeper stared at him suspiciously but as Hertig did not seem to be armed, he let him pass. Now that he was in Bree, Hertig was unsure of where to go. He asked the gatekeeper if there were any inns nearby and he was directed to the Prancing Pony. The Thain had kindly provided Hertig with a small amount of coin and Hertig hoped to get a least a hot meal at the inn. Perhaps there would be news of Frodo there as well.
It was a friendly, comfortable looking inn and Hertig felt instantly at ease. It had been a long time since he had felt that way. With a sigh, he settled himself at a table with a pint of ale and waited for his meal. A round-faced blustery sort of fellow approached his table, "Good afternoon, sir," said the man trying to sound friendly, but peering at Hertig apprehensively. "I've not seen you round these parts before. Come far have you?"
Hertig smiled up at the innkeeper. "Aye, I've come very far and I am hoping to meet up with some friends here or at least hear news of them. Do you know anything of Frodo Baggins or perhaps his cousins, Pippin Took or Merry Brandybuck?"
Butterbur the innkeeper stared at the man in open-mouthed surprise. Frodo had arrived just the previous night along with his cousins and Gandalf the Wizard. He wasn't sure if he should mention them or not. "Well, I can't rightly say, sir," he hedged, "Might I know your name so I can tell them if I see them?"
Hertig glanced at the innkeeper then shrugged. "If you should see them, please tell them Hertig of Rohan is here and has news of their friend, Samwise Gamgee."
"Samwise Gamgee?" repeated Butterbur with a frown. "Now what does that remind me of? Nob!" he cried suddenly to the hobbit standing near the doorway. "What does the name Samwise Gamgee remind me of?"
Nob reached into his pocket and pulled out a folded piece of paper. This he handed to his employer. "He's the one wanted in Hobbiton," replied Nob.
"Ah yes! That's right! Some o' those rabble from the Shire demanded we put this up in the inn. I took it to avoid trouble, but I surely wasn't going to help the likes o' them!" He handed Hertig Sam's wanted poster. Hertig's face grew very grim. He knew the hobbit in Michel Delving had said this would happen, but it was very disturbing to see it in print. It must have been created before he escaped he noticed, seeing his own name on the list.
"May I keep this?" he asked the innkeeper.
Butterbur nodded. "And, should I see Master Baggins or the others, I'll tell them you're here!" The innkeeper then turned and scurried from the room. He looked back and watched for a moment as Hertig studied the poster and absently shoveled food into his mouth. Butterbur then continued on to the private parlor where he knew Frodo and the others to be enjoying a late luncheon.
"Excuse me, Master Baggins," he said a little breathlessly as he entered the room. Frodo, Pippin, and Merry looked up from their plates. Gandalf had gone off for awhile.
"Hello, Master Butterbur!" smiled Frodo. "Everything is fine here!" His cousins, their mouths full, simply nodded in agreement.
"Uh, that's wonderful, sir," said Butterbur glancing back over his shoulder. "But I have news for you. There's a strange gentleman out in the common room lookin' for you and your cousins here. A tall, thin fellow with long blonde hair. I've never seen the like!"
The hobbits stopped eating and stared at Butterbur in confusion. "Did this man give his name?" asked Frodo in surprise.
Butterbur nodded. "Aye, he said his name was, um, Hertig from Rohan and that he had news o' your friend, Samwise Gamgee. Does that make any sense?"
With a crash of chairs, the three hobbits leapt to their feet and crowded around the startled innkeeper. "Where is this man?" demanded Frodo excitedly. "We must see him right away!"
"Certainly, certainly!" replied Butterbur in relief. "I'll bring him right in. He's just in the next room. He was most eager to see you!" With that, the innkeeper disappeared through the door.
"Why would Hertig still be here?" wondered Merry as he set his chair back in place. "I should think he would have returned to Edoras long ago!"
Before either Frodo or Pippin could reply, Butterbur returned with a tall, thin man in tow. The man's long hair was tied back and his face looked thin and worn. He bowed to the hobbits politely.
"Excuse me for intruding," said the Rider quietly, "But, I have important news for you and hoped to find you before you left for the Shire."
Frodo eyed the man for a moment then turned to Butterbur, "Thank you, sir," he said. "I think we will be alright now." For a moment the innkeeper looked as if he might say something, but then he gave a small bow and left the room. "Please," said Frodo pointing to an empty chair, "Sit down. We are most anxious to hear your news!"
With a nod of thanks, Hertig sat down and looked at the eager faces before him. "I am thankful I was able to find you before you left for the Shire. I have much to tell you." With a sigh, he told them of how he and Sam had been captured shortly after arriving in the Shire and of his own imprisonment in the Lockholes and subsequent escape. "I worried about Sam a great deal," he said taking a swig of the ale placed before him, "We learned that the so-called "Chief" was making Sam work as a virtual slave in his gardens. Then, something happened, and Sam killed one of the ruffians and disappeared. We heard nothing for a long time about his whereabouts until some rebels from someplace called the hills of Scary were captured. One of them told us that Sam had joined them, but had not been captured. It was after the remaining rebels started burning bridges that these started to appear." Here, he paused, pulled out the poster and handed it to Frodo. Pippin and Merry gathered round to study it as well.
Frodo's face went chalky white as he read the contents of the flyer. "Execute the Cottons!?" he whispered in abject horror. "Kill Rosie!?" He stared at his cousins in disbelief. They all knew that Sam adored Rosie. If anything happened to her, Sam would never forgive himself. And yet, if Sam did turn himself in, there was no doubt of his fate. Frodo looked at the date on the flyer. The first execution was set for October 29th. That very day.
Frodo stood up and stumbled over to the fire burning brightly in the grate. His head was spinning. All this time he had assumed Sam was safe and sound in the Shire and now he comes to find Sam a wanted criminal and no doubt condemned to death if captured! If he didn't turn himself in, then others would die in his place. Frodo slammed his fist against the fireplace in rage and frustration! If only he had gone after Sam in the first place none of this would have happened! Now, it might be too late to save his friend. They must leave for Hobbiton immediately if there was to be any hope of rescue. Frodo closed his eyes a leaned his aching head against the mantel. They would either save Sam's life or avenge his murder.
Chapter 26 Hertig's Escape
Hertig followed the hobbits through narrow tracks known only to them. He had ceased caring where he went as long as it wasn't back to the Lockholes. The going was rough for someone as tall as he and several times he was forced to crawl through low hanging tunnels of brush, but he didn't complain. He was eager to get out of these dismal woods!
Finally, they came to what appeared to Hertig as a round door built into a hillside. "Wait here," said the leader and disappeared inside the door while the others waited outside. Hertig leaned wearily against the side of the hill, closing his eyes in exhaustion. The other hobbits continued to watch him warily. A short while later, the first hobbit returned and beckoned the others to enter. This was one of the many entrances into the Took's Great Smials. This one, one of the lesser entryways, led into a low hallway, high enough for the hobbits , but awkwardly low for someone of Hertig's height. Bent low, the Rider clumsily followed the hobbits through the passageway and into a large chamber. It was empty of furnishings except for a hobbit sized table and chairs. Seated at this table was an elderly yet fierce looking hobbit. Several other hobbits stood nearby armed with bows. They all watched Hertig suspiciously.
"This the Man you spoke of, Ferdinand?" the Elder asked, looking Hertig up and down.
"Aye, Thain, that's right," replied the leader of the hobbits that had brought Hertig in. "Claims he was locked up with Ol' Will and knows about Pippin., Merry , and Frodo."
"Hmm," grunted the older hobbit, still peering at Hertig. "Well, Man, what have you to say for yourself. What do you know about Pippin?"
The room was almost high enough for Hertig to stand erect, so he was slightly more comfortable. He sighed and tried to look less bedraggled. "My name is Hertig from Rohan. I am one of the Rohirrim or Riders. I met Pippin Took after the Battle Helms Deep. He and his kinsmen, Merry Brandybuck were instrumental in the downfall of the evil White Wizard, Saruman. Later, Pippin fought bravely defending the city of Minas Tirith from the Black Lord's horde of orcs. He saved the life of Lord Faramir, the steward's son. Master Pippin also fought at the Battle of the Black Gates and as I understand, was nearly slain by a troll. But, he has since recovered and he, Merry Brandybuck and Frodo Baggins, as well as Samwise Gamgee are counted as heroes of Middle Earth." He paused here as the hobbits in the room began to talk excitedly among themselves.
"You're sure it was Pippin who did all this?" asked the old hobbit incredulously. "And Merry?"
Hertig gave a small laugh. "Aye, my lord," he replied. "Even the smallest can make a difference."
With that, the Thain gave a loud, booming laugh. "By george!" he boomed, "Who would have thought that young Pippin and Merry would have turned themselves around to such a degree! I'll have you know, sir, that they were known more for their mischief than brave deeds!" He grinned at Hertig, "Pippin is my son and it pleases me to hear he has done so well!" He then turned to one of the hobbits behind him. "Bring food and drink for this Rider from Rohan," he ordered. "He looks as if he will fall over any minute!" He turned back to Hertig. "Please, sir, sit. I'm afraid we have no chairs to fit such as yourself, but I suspect even the floor will be better than standing!"
With a grateful sigh, Hertig slid to the floor and leaned against the wall. "Thank you, my lord."
"Now, now!" cried the Thain in his loud voice, "None of the "my lord" business! We've no lord here, young fellow. Now, tell me more of why you are here. Ferdinand here says you claim the Mayor sent you."
Hertig nodded then his face lit up eagerly as two hobbits arrived with food and drink. The Thain nodded for him to go ahead and eat. Still, Hertig managed to get his story out between bites. He finished his food and his story almost at the same time.
"And so, Fredegar Bolger said that Sam believed Frodo and the others would be arriving soon. The Mayor hoped that I would be able to intercept them and warn them of the troubles here and perhaps bring help to oust the troublemakers." Hertig sighed contentedly as he downed his mug of ale. The Thain had a ready supply and didn't care about the Chief's orders to turn in all alcoholic beverages.
"Well, well, well," said the Thain thoughtfully. "That is quite a tale indeed. The Mayor is right. We don't want Pippin, Merry and Frodo to walk into a trap. Lotho always despised Bilbo and Frodo and things would go ill for Master Baggins. As for bringing back help. Hmph." The Thain gave a snort of disdain. "All we really need is someone strong enough to unite the hobbits against these ruffians. We certainly outnumber 'em. We've made a stand, but there aren't enough Tooks to do it all. We need the rest of the countryside to rise as well. We've been bottled up here in the Green Hill country for far too long. If young Pippin and Merry have been involved in all the battles you claim, perhaps they'll be just what we need to get things moving!"
The Thain sat silently for a moment, then turned to Ferdinand. "We will let Master Hertig here have a good night's rest, then you can lead him across the Brandywine to Buckland. Take him to my sister, Esmeralda at Brandy Hall. I'm sure she can arrange a guide to take our friend here to Bree." Ferdinand nodded. The Thain turned his attention back to Hertig.
"Buckland is across the river," he explained. "They're Merry's family although Merry is also my nephew. They'll get you to Bree well enough. In the meantime, I will arrange for a bath and clean clothes for you. Not sure what we have that might fit, but perhaps the ladies can come up with something. At the very least, we can wash what you're wearing!" He stood up. "I will see you in the morning. Sleep well."
Hertig bowed. "Thank you, sir," he replied gratefully and watched as the Thain strode from the room. A couple of hours later found him comfortably situated in a chamber deep within the Smials. The hobbits had laid thick cushions on the floor and found him at least a shirt large enough for him to sleep in while his clothes were cleaned. He felt much better than he had in a long time and began to hope that perhaps his mission would be successful.
The next morning, after a filling breakfast, Ferdinand led Hertig through the deepest forests of the Green Hills towards the Stockbrook. This small river fed into the Brandywine and would be their guide to the river. They didn't dare take the Stock Road as Men often patrolled there. Neither Hertig nor his hobbit guide spoke much. Ferdinand was constantly watching for any sign of ruffians lurking about. It was still cold and drizzly, so he was fairly confident that their numbers would be few. Hertig was still weary, but eager to be free of the Shire.
The two traveled quickly and by nightfall, they had reached the banks of the Brandywine. They had spied several scouting parties of Lotho's men, but had managed to avoid being seen. "Can you swim?" Ferdinand whispered as the carefully surveyed the banks of the river. Although Hertig had little experience with water, he was able to swim reasonably well. Ferdinand nodded. "Good. The water is not too swift here," he explained, "Saradoc usually has a few men stationed along the river keeping watch. I'm not too fond of swimming myself, but I'll go over with you and see to your safe passage."
The two then cautiously made their way to the river. It was dark now and as the two removed their clothing, Hertig could feel the bitter wind bite his bare flesh. The water would be even worse. Fortunately, it wasn't a difficult passage and soon the two were safely on the on the other side. As Ferdinand had hoped, they were soon intercepted by one of the many Brandybucks living in the area. With Ferdinand along to explain things, it wasn't long before Hertig and his guide, Ilberic were on their way to Bree. Now, if only he could get there in time.
--------------------------------------------- It was early in the morning when Hertig and Ilberic spied Bree in the distance. They had been traveling nonstop a day and a night, so urgent was Hertig's errand. They moved silently and cautiously as Ilberic worried about brigands and footpads that frequented the area around Bree. "I will leave you here," said the hobbit as they ate a scant breakfast. "I don't like leaving my family alone during these bad times and I think you should be able to reach the town by this afternoon with no trouble. The robbers avoid the daylight." Hertig nodded and after thanking his guide, the Rider set out along the Great East Road to Bree.
It was well past noon when Hertig finally made his exhausted way into the town of Bree. The gatekeeper stared at him suspiciously but as Hertig did not seem to be armed, he let him pass. Now that he was in Bree, Hertig was unsure of where to go. He asked the gatekeeper if there were any inns nearby and he was directed to the Prancing Pony. The Thain had kindly provided Hertig with a small amount of coin and Hertig hoped to get a least a hot meal at the inn. Perhaps there would be news of Frodo there as well.
It was a friendly, comfortable looking inn and Hertig felt instantly at ease. It had been a long time since he had felt that way. With a sigh, he settled himself at a table with a pint of ale and waited for his meal. A round-faced blustery sort of fellow approached his table, "Good afternoon, sir," said the man trying to sound friendly, but peering at Hertig apprehensively. "I've not seen you round these parts before. Come far have you?"
Hertig smiled up at the innkeeper. "Aye, I've come very far and I am hoping to meet up with some friends here or at least hear news of them. Do you know anything of Frodo Baggins or perhaps his cousins, Pippin Took or Merry Brandybuck?"
Butterbur the innkeeper stared at the man in open-mouthed surprise. Frodo had arrived just the previous night along with his cousins and Gandalf the Wizard. He wasn't sure if he should mention them or not. "Well, I can't rightly say, sir," he hedged, "Might I know your name so I can tell them if I see them?"
Hertig glanced at the innkeeper then shrugged. "If you should see them, please tell them Hertig of Rohan is here and has news of their friend, Samwise Gamgee."
"Samwise Gamgee?" repeated Butterbur with a frown. "Now what does that remind me of? Nob!" he cried suddenly to the hobbit standing near the doorway. "What does the name Samwise Gamgee remind me of?"
Nob reached into his pocket and pulled out a folded piece of paper. This he handed to his employer. "He's the one wanted in Hobbiton," replied Nob.
"Ah yes! That's right! Some o' those rabble from the Shire demanded we put this up in the inn. I took it to avoid trouble, but I surely wasn't going to help the likes o' them!" He handed Hertig Sam's wanted poster. Hertig's face grew very grim. He knew the hobbit in Michel Delving had said this would happen, but it was very disturbing to see it in print. It must have been created before he escaped he noticed, seeing his own name on the list.
"May I keep this?" he asked the innkeeper.
Butterbur nodded. "And, should I see Master Baggins or the others, I'll tell them you're here!" The innkeeper then turned and scurried from the room. He looked back and watched for a moment as Hertig studied the poster and absently shoveled food into his mouth. Butterbur then continued on to the private parlor where he knew Frodo and the others to be enjoying a late luncheon.
"Excuse me, Master Baggins," he said a little breathlessly as he entered the room. Frodo, Pippin, and Merry looked up from their plates. Gandalf had gone off for awhile.
"Hello, Master Butterbur!" smiled Frodo. "Everything is fine here!" His cousins, their mouths full, simply nodded in agreement.
"Uh, that's wonderful, sir," said Butterbur glancing back over his shoulder. "But I have news for you. There's a strange gentleman out in the common room lookin' for you and your cousins here. A tall, thin fellow with long blonde hair. I've never seen the like!"
The hobbits stopped eating and stared at Butterbur in confusion. "Did this man give his name?" asked Frodo in surprise.
Butterbur nodded. "Aye, he said his name was, um, Hertig from Rohan and that he had news o' your friend, Samwise Gamgee. Does that make any sense?"
With a crash of chairs, the three hobbits leapt to their feet and crowded around the startled innkeeper. "Where is this man?" demanded Frodo excitedly. "We must see him right away!"
"Certainly, certainly!" replied Butterbur in relief. "I'll bring him right in. He's just in the next room. He was most eager to see you!" With that, the innkeeper disappeared through the door.
"Why would Hertig still be here?" wondered Merry as he set his chair back in place. "I should think he would have returned to Edoras long ago!"
Before either Frodo or Pippin could reply, Butterbur returned with a tall, thin man in tow. The man's long hair was tied back and his face looked thin and worn. He bowed to the hobbits politely.
"Excuse me for intruding," said the Rider quietly, "But, I have important news for you and hoped to find you before you left for the Shire."
Frodo eyed the man for a moment then turned to Butterbur, "Thank you, sir," he said. "I think we will be alright now." For a moment the innkeeper looked as if he might say something, but then he gave a small bow and left the room. "Please," said Frodo pointing to an empty chair, "Sit down. We are most anxious to hear your news!"
With a nod of thanks, Hertig sat down and looked at the eager faces before him. "I am thankful I was able to find you before you left for the Shire. I have much to tell you." With a sigh, he told them of how he and Sam had been captured shortly after arriving in the Shire and of his own imprisonment in the Lockholes and subsequent escape. "I worried about Sam a great deal," he said taking a swig of the ale placed before him, "We learned that the so-called "Chief" was making Sam work as a virtual slave in his gardens. Then, something happened, and Sam killed one of the ruffians and disappeared. We heard nothing for a long time about his whereabouts until some rebels from someplace called the hills of Scary were captured. One of them told us that Sam had joined them, but had not been captured. It was after the remaining rebels started burning bridges that these started to appear." Here, he paused, pulled out the poster and handed it to Frodo. Pippin and Merry gathered round to study it as well.
Frodo's face went chalky white as he read the contents of the flyer. "Execute the Cottons!?" he whispered in abject horror. "Kill Rosie!?" He stared at his cousins in disbelief. They all knew that Sam adored Rosie. If anything happened to her, Sam would never forgive himself. And yet, if Sam did turn himself in, there was no doubt of his fate. Frodo looked at the date on the flyer. The first execution was set for October 29th. That very day.
Frodo stood up and stumbled over to the fire burning brightly in the grate. His head was spinning. All this time he had assumed Sam was safe and sound in the Shire and now he comes to find Sam a wanted criminal and no doubt condemned to death if captured! If he didn't turn himself in, then others would die in his place. Frodo slammed his fist against the fireplace in rage and frustration! If only he had gone after Sam in the first place none of this would have happened! Now, it might be too late to save his friend. They must leave for Hobbiton immediately if there was to be any hope of rescue. Frodo closed his eyes a leaned his aching head against the mantel. They would either save Sam's life or avenge his murder.