Frodo was as proud as Sam that the ten-year-old had progressed so well at learning his letters. The lad had concentrated for weeks on something of the utmost importance. Next day was Yule and, with Frodo’s help, his very special gift to his mumma was nearly finished.

Sam had made up the verse himself, painstakingly written out the letters, and added a beautiful border of flowers in coloured inks. Frodo had carved the frame, his contribution.

Sam’s mother would be proud, and would appreciate the love that went into the gift and would treasure it forever as mumma’s always did.