THIRD THOUGHTS

Faramir opened the curtain, peered within, where the hobbits lay: Frodo exhausted, shadows like bruises on his pale face; Sam, even in sleep a worried furrow on his brow, an arm flung across his master.

He felt a stir of protectiveness and love. So small, so determined, so valiant. Their mission was hopeless…would he not be doing them a favor to hinder it?

He drew up sharply.

“ ‘Not if I found it on the highway would I take it…’  Well that I gave oath before I knew whereof I spoke.” He laughed ruefully.

And took himself away from temptation.