Bálin and Bilbo walk into a tunnel leading to the interior of the mountain.
"You want me to find a jewel?" Bilbo asked him.
"A large white jewel, yes." Bálin nodded his question.
"That's it? Only, I imagine there's quite a few down there." Bilbo assumed.
"There is only one Arkenstone." Bálin answered. "You'll know it when you see it."
"Alright." Bilbo complied.
Bálin continues to walk back down the tunnel, but then pauses. "In truth, lad, I do not know what you will find down there." He sighs and looks at Bilbo with an honest look on his face. "You needn't go if you don't want to, there's no dishonor in turning back."
"No, Bálin, I promised I would do this, and I think I must try." Bilbo said bravely.
Bálin looks at Bilbo, then begins to chuckle appreciatively. "It never ceases to amaze me."
"What's that?" Bilbo wondered.
"The courage of Hobbits." Bálin smiled. "Go now with as much luck as you can muster."
They nod at each other, and Bilbo proceeds down the tunnel while Bálin turns back.
"Oh, and Bilbo... if there is, in fact, a live dragon down there, don't waken it." Bálin warned.
Bilbo looks worried, but nods. He walks a few more steps, then turns as if to ask a question, but Bálin had already disappeared around a corner. Hoping to succeed, Bilbo tiptoes toward Smaug's lair.