Anso the Hobbit
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
Oh! That was quite a speech to give Merry. I sat on the edge of my chair reading that. But it`s probably true, sad as it is. Estella shouldn`t be second in Merry`s life. She should be first. But that is hard with the relationship between Merry and Pippin since that is so strong.
Author's reply
Poor Estella. Merry was taking her for granted, and not even realising it. But I think he's seeing the situation through new eyes, thanks to that interfering busybody of a healer... (I mean Woodruff, whom I regard fondly, despite what I just wrote...)
Anso the Hobbit
· 28 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
Lol! No, this is indeed not the only conjourer Bilbo has knocking at his door! :)
Poor Ferdi, thinking he might die! It`s a sore trial for a hobbit not being able to eat. and then, Bilbo has a dog eat at the table like another hobbit, lol. You certainly know how to write variations over a theme. :)
Author's reply
Indeed. Wouldn't it be funny if Gandalf arrived and found his bed already in use? (But it's not going to happen, not in this story at least. Got enough threads to keep account of!)
Thanks!
Ariel
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
That is one thing I have bitched about many times - that people write these hobbits as being closer to each other than to their wives. BULL. That shortchanges women, and does us great disservice. I challenge anyone who's lived a while to remember when their best friend got married. Friendships, no matter how close, are different than the relationship between a married couple. Comparing them is like apples and oranges - neither is better than the other, nor stronger nor exclusive of it - but the friendships, if they are true friendships, DON'T get between the marriage. Marriage is more important, and dare I say, sacred, and too many fanfic writers don't understand that. Maybe because they are mostly so young. *shrug* It's late... I hope you didn't expect coherency?
Author's reply
While I don't expect coherency, I do read reviews with interest and appreciation. And sometimes ask for clarity. But then I'm so often muddled, myself. (Not as much as previously, when I was in a caffeine fog. Oh how I miss the taste of coffee, tea and chocolate. But it's been worth it.)
Andrea
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
Wow! Woodruff is amazing! As an experienced healer she always knows what to do and what to say. And having dealt with the Thain for so long, she's not the least afraid to speak to the Master as if he were her own son! And Merry takes her advice(a real good advice BTW), because he respects her.
And if Merry is absolutely sure, that Pippin is out of danger, I trust him. For there is no-one, who knows Pippin better than Merry!
Thank you!
Author's reply
LOL, so you can relax now, at least so far as Pippin is concerned. We are past the worst, I'm glad to say.
And Woodruff is only human, and makes mistakes, but not so many as she used to.
Dreamflower
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
This is great.
I love the way she simply takes over with the Mayor and the Master. Having so long dealt with a Thain, they simply do not intimidate her in the least. She sees what they need and provides it: in Sam's case, something to calm him and help him sleep, and in Merry's case, a bit of sage and overdue advice.
I am glad that Merry was able to let her know how sure he is that Pippin's recovery is real. He does indeed know his cousin better than anyone--even better than Pippin himself--and I am quite sure that he read the signs immediately. And of course, he has his own previous and personal experience of Ent-draught to go by.
And I am glad that Woodruff was able to open Merry's eyes a bit to his neglect of his wife. I am sure that he did tell her he loved her in the earlier days of their marriage, but that is something that needs constant re-inforcement--especially when Estella knew that he had loved another before her, and that however much his heart is given to her, Pippin has part of his soul. She had to wonder at times, and in the stress of possibly losing Pippin, it must have been doubly hard.
Very good chapter, and I look forward eagerly to the next--I'm dying to see how Bilbo can fix the teapot problem...
Author's reply
I think a healer to the Tooks would grow a thick skin... Are your Tooks as difficult for Diamond to deal with, healer that you've made her, as mine are with their healers?
Poor Merry has been very distracted, but he is back on track with his wife again, thanks to Woodruff!
Larner
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
We need the words sometimes. She's right to tell him to tell Estella, and it's about time she realizes that Merry knows his Pippin to recognize when he's getting better.
Author's reply
It *is* about time! But it all flies in the face of everything she's learned over the years... Miracles can be hard to swallow.
Hai Took
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
Oh dear, Sam is so very upset! I'm sure that is very frightening for his children to see. Woodruff did well though to get them off to breakfast hopefully that will lift their own spirits. Woodruff's beloved was able to help with that I think, keeping the children occupied and all. I know Rose will be there for Sam know matter what!
Merry seems to grasp things very well. At least he is confident that things are going well. Woodruff did a very good thing asking Merry if he loved Estella, although I'm sure it was a blow to Merry. I must find it very difficult to accept that he hasn't always been as loving as he ought to be with her.
I was originally going to write one review for this chapter and the last but I wanted to say too much so it ended up as two. I'm looking forward to more and I'm more than a bit anxious to see the recovery of Ferdi and Pippin!
Author's reply
Poor Sam. He's so very exhausted, worn down to a frazzle. A good sleep will help, and seeing Pippin later on will do him a wonder of good.
I find it hard to be called on my shortcomings; I guess I can empathise with Merry.
As you know, your reviews are very welcome!
Hai Took
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
That must have been quite a surprise for Frodo! I like that it was the dog that nearly had Frodo slamming the door in their faces and not the Man carrying his cousin! Very kind of Robin/Jack to carry Pippin all the way and then let him eat all of his food! Pippin must have talked quite a bit and I loved this "while Bilbo was nowhere near to being the young one's uncle, he appreciated the brevity of the address."
I'm gald they figured out when Pippin had come and all but what a shock Pippin's family is going to recieve when they get Bilbo's letter! I hope nobody is in trouble!
Bilbo is very perceptive, I'm gald he invited the Man to stay and is going to feed him well. Frodo did very good with the dog! I'm sure it is wasn't pleasant and finding out Lop did something to save Pippin probably helped most. lol, I can just see Bilbo allowing a dog to sit at the table with them!
Ferdi is certainly doing pretty good, or so it seems at least he wasn't wanting to comply to easily! Everyone is so upset though, I'm sure it is very difficult for all of them.
Author's reply
I am belated in review replies and not likely to catch up this morning! But I am stealing just a moment or two to get started.
Robin/Jack has a kind heart... either he's a good Man, to begin with, or hobbits have rubbed off on him.
I certainly appreciate the time you took to write feedback and "hit the highlights". It helps me to see the chapter through new eyes, and not the same proofreading, nitpicking eyes that I fall into the habit of employing!
Connie B.
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
Woodruff can certainly be a force to be reaconed with. I think Merry was stunned by her bluntness and honest observation as by what she told him.
It is amazing how many people believe that their loved ones just know that they are loved without ever hearing the words. No matter how much you show a person that you love them, they still need to hear those three little words now and then. I hope Merry realizes that he's neglected to say them for far too long and corrects that oversight.
Very nice chapter.
Connie B.
Author's reply
Ah, Woodruff. Not one to pull her punches. (Not a very hobbity sentiment!)
I remember hearing a lovely song on the radio, that went like this (looked it up just now, and apparently it is a folk song--the Carters sang it, but it has no author attributed):
Wonderful things of folks are said
When they have passed away
Roses adorn the narrow bed
Over the sleeping clay
Give me the roses while I live
Trying to cheer me on
Useless are flowers that you give
After the soul is gone
Kind words are useless when folks lie
Cold in a narrow bed
Don't wait till death to speak kind words
Now should the words be said
Let us not wait to do good deeds
Till they have passed away
Now is the time to sow good seeds
While here on earth we stay
...Thanks!
Pearl Took
· 27 July 2005
· Chapter 38: Interlude
BRAVO!!! On so many counts, in so many ways over the last several chapters. BRAVO!!!
I've been hectic and have just now caught up. I loved the wandering conjurer, the loyal sheepdog, I love the handkerchief upon the doorknob, Rosie with her Sam, Merry being reminded to comfort Estella with words of his love for her. This is a wonderful, truly wonderful story.
I leave for England on the 2nd and, though I'm taking a laptop, I'm not sure how easily or often I'll be connecting to the internet. It may be long stretches between reading and responding through most all of August.
Again, MEWD!! :) :) A joy to read :)
Author's reply
Thank you so much for your encouragement.
Why, as I write this, you ought to be in England! I hope you have a wonderful time!
Elena Tiriel
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
I like all of your stories, Lindelea, but I think this one is my favorite. It is so warm and satisfying... and I think these last two chapters are the most heartwarming of all. Thank you for sharing with us!
- Barbara
Author's reply
Oh, thank you! Very encouraging, indeed. There are still a few warm moments to come, I am glad to say.
Andrea
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
'I never knew dogs could be so...' Frodo said.
Good old Lop. I like that dog!
But I really wonder what will happen, when Frodo's letter reaches Paladin and his wife. They have no idea, that Pippin is in Bag End now, save at last. I would like to see their faces ;-)
And I hope Ferdi will recover. Woodruff seems not so sure about it. That makes me a little nervous!
Author's reply
Well, I imagine most of the dogs in Buckland are working dogs, either hunting or herding. Somehow I don't see the practical Brandybucks as embracing lap-dogs. I don't see Bilbo as having a "pet" dog, and Paladin, practical, unsentimental farmer that he is, would also have only dogs that pay their own way. So Frodo may not be familiar with an affectionate dog, especially if he didn't have his own canine friend-guardian, growing up...
Hmmm, when the quick post rider reaches Whittacres... it ought to be interesting.
Poor Woodruff. Internal injuries, considering the extent of her healing knowledge and the limited means at her disposal, are worrisome indeed.
Connie B.
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
Well, Pippin's parents are sure going to be in for a big surprise.:)
This was a sweet chapter. I could just see a dog trailing Pippin. If ever a child needed all the minders he could get, it was him.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
If ever a child needed all the minders he could get...
sounds so familiar. Perhaps we ought to get another dog.
SlightlyTookish
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
Terrific chapter, I enjoyed every bit of it. I love seeing Bilbo's interaction with Robin, and of course he would have a man-sized bed! :D I also loved to see all the care and attention that Lop received :)
Author's reply
It was fun to cosset Lop a bit; the dog deserved it. Though I suspect he'd really prefer to be working the sheep.
Connie B.
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 36: Interlude
This was a very nice chapter. I could see the events you wrote about so clearly.
Woodruff sure knows just how to mannipulate people, for the best of purposes.
Sorry I didn't review the last chapter. The last two weeks have been crazy.
Thanks.
Connie B.
Author's reply
I know how it goes, with crazy weeks. Have had a few of those of my own this summer. (And before.)
Good thing Woodruff is good-hearted, I guess!
Thanks!
Dreamflower
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
Oh, Bilbo's a sharp one! He's figured almost all of it out now, except that Pip's parents have yet to miss him--so it's possible that by the time they actually *do* the Quick Post rider will be there, LOL!
I really loved the way he deduced that Pip had eaten all of Jack's food. And that he offered bed and board to him for the night. (I see your Bilbo keeps a room for Gandalf as well.)
Frodo improving his acquaintance with the brave Lop is lovely. Perhaps now he can begin to get over his fears.
And when he wakes up, little Pip can get Bilbo's help with that broken teapot. (Still, I'm mystified as to why he thinks *only* Bilbo can do it.)
I think this is just about my favorite chapter yet!!! *grin*
Author's reply
LOL, don't you just love it when the timing works out?
It seems logical to me that Bilbo would keep a room for Gandalf. It would be the polite thing to do. I wonder if the Old Took kept a room for Gandalf as well, and if it's a relic, a source of wonder for young explorers? (A room for a *giant*! Tucked away in an unused corridor...)
Lop is a charmer, for certain. If he didn't work so hard, keeping sheep in line, he'd probably get fat from handouts conned out of unsuspecting hobbits. (sigh. stare. lie down. put head on paws. sigh. look up hopefully. let ears droop. sigh.)
The explanation to the mystery is coming in chapter 39, I think.
How nice to hear you liked the chapter! Thanks!
Grey Wonderer
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
('Yes,' Bilbo said, sticking his thumbs in his waistcoat and rocking back on his heels. 'You're not the only conjuror to rap upon my door...')
I simply loved that line! I have been keeping up with this one but have been remiss about my reviewing. I love Lop! The dog is perfect for Pippin and Lop also seems to be able to charm Frodo a bit. Great story! I do wonder what Pippin wants to speak to Bilbo about. Hope there is more of this one soon.
Author's reply
I love that image, confident Bilbo, unfazed by a Man on his doorstep.
Pippin will be talking over his business with Bilbo in Chapter 39.
Thanks for taking the time to review!
Bodkin
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
I'm rushing, because SOMEONE is saying 'Hurry, hurry, why aren't you packed!'
That Pippin is such a fortunate little Gluckspilz. And it might be that the message will reach home before his family start tearing the place apart looking for him.
Good for Robin son of Jack. He deserves more than to have his food stock replaced. He may have made some desperate choices in his time, but he's good-hearted. (I should very much like to see that meeting between Thain Peregrin and the former conjuror and wandering opportunist.)
And Lop is such a lovely dog, that if any can help Frodo overcome his nerves, it's him. Though a Lop that doesn't smell of fox seems a good plan.
I hope Ferdi is showing signs of recovery. Complaining about the lack of food seems promising. But what a tear-jerker, with his poor father singing to him, and all the hobbits off their food and Nell wallowing in guilt.
I'll be back with you as soon as I can!
Author's reply
So, why aren't you packed? (Bon voyage) Thanks for reviewing "above and beyond the call of duty"!
Gluckspilz? Lucky mushroom? Hadn't heard that one before. And LOL. I do love irony, somehow.
Y'know, am thinking of putting up a "story" of sorts at SoA where the chapters comprise background material that got cut from stories. It would probably only be of interest to people who'd already read a story and wanted to see more. I have actually written that meeting you mention, but couldn't fit it into "Glisters" without spoiling the story's balance. It had already gone on much too long, and really ought to have ended before the Bridge, and then have the Bridge and following events in a separate story.
I do love Lop. It's a delight to write him "alive and well".
Poor Ferdi. Those dratted healers, forcing food on someone when they're not hungry, and denying food when wanted. It's enough to give someone a complex, or healer-phobia, or some such.
Hope you have a wonderful time!
harrowcat
· 25 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
What a lovely chapter to read. And I am glad that Frodo gets over his fear of dogs - at least a little.
Author's reply
Thanks!
Ariel
· 24 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
Hmmm... I don't think Frodo'd be afraid of all dogs. Perhaps it is my personal pref, but I've never thought him the type. I can see him being afraid of Maggot's dogs in particular, but that doesn't necessarily mean that he's terrified of dogs in general. He's far too rational when he tells Pip that he was 'certain the beasts knew their business' and wouldn't really have hurt him. Someone with a phobia about dogs would not be so understanding about them. JMHO, of course, but I'll stick with it 'cause I like him better without phobias. ;)
I am glad Pip found his way to Bilbo's. Lovely scene with Ferdi too. Thank you for updating.
Author's reply
Ah, but that's the beauty of it. Did I ever say he's afraid of all dogs? Hopefully those who think of Frodo as having dog-phobia can read this chapter with as much head-nodding as those who think he's only afraid of Maggot's dogs.
Perhaps Lop resembles one of Maggot's dogs. Or perhaps it is simply eminently practical caution on Frodo's part.
Though our last three dogs averaged 100 lbs, I'm still wary of large dogs I don't know. (Actually, am wary of smaller dogs, too, after a cocker spaniel "No, he doesn't bite, go ahead and pet him, dear" jumped up and bit our then 5yo dd in the face.)
One of our dogs, a gentle giant with our own children (tho he'd herd them in what he considered the proper direction if, in his opinion, they strayed), could put people off just by pricking up his ears and staring at them intently. (Rather like Lop. And his ears stayed pricked only so long before they flopped forward at the halfway mark, rather like Lop again, which always made us laugh for some reason. And then his jaws would part, he'd show off his razor teeth, and "laugh" along with us.) I remember in particular a day when we had the front door open, only the screen door separating us from our sometimes uneasy inner-urban neighbourhood. A scurrilous-looking man started up the walk, probably offering to "work" in return for a handout. The dog, lying in the door, sat up suddenly and did his impression of bat-ears. The man hurried back down the front walk and away. The dog never growled, or barked, or anything--the "look" was enough.
I think if a dog showed up at my door with a stranger, and the dog outweighed me and showed his teeth in a wolfish grin, I might be tempted to slam the door as well!
Author Reply: p.s. "I never knew that dogs could be so..." could imply he's never had a dog for a friend, as much as a fear of dogs. Hope so, anyhow.
Larner
· 24 July 2005
· Chapter 37: Dog of a Different Colour
It is a pleasure to see Frodo getting in at least one good interaction with a larger dog. And love that they realized Lop has been guarding Pippin.
Author's reply
I do love Lop, he's such a character in his own right. Fierce as a lion when he has to kill, but gentle as a lamb with those he honours and protects. A rare sort, that sounds too good to be true, except that he is modeled after a couple of real-life examples.
Bodkin
· 22 July 2005
· Chapter 36: Interlude
Clever Woodruff. Took dialect is clearly key to Ferdi control. Very strong when she says, 'No matter what Sandy told you,' I say firmly, 'it was a thousand times worse.' Regi and Ferdi must have been terribly disconcerted. That's not an admission you expect from a healer - and it took the wind out of their sails immediately.
So Pippin is to be left. Sink or swim. Live or die. A moment of peace in an epic struggle.
Good thing she's right.
Love her relationship with her beloved. He understands her very well.
Author's reply
It is a good thing she's right... (and I'm glad to know the outcome, for sure!)
Thanks!
Hai Took
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 36: Interlude
Of course Fredi and Regi were upset at not being informed about Pippin's condition but obviously Woodruff was right in this instance. Perhaps she is just a bit more sure of things herself? She feels Pip will all right? Good thing her beloved is still looking after her she needs his care as much as she feels she must give hers, if that makes since at all. Thank you and looking forward to more!
Author's reply
She's not sure if Pippin's all right. She feels it in her bones; she hopes it, but in her head she knows that you can't always trust your feelings. And of course, she's tired out of mind. But we can hope along with her, can't we?
Thanks!
Dreamflower
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 36: Interlude
I love how she reassures them that all is well when she doesn't really believe it yet herself...
Author's reply
Sounds like the kind of thing a healer might do, somehow. And yet enough of her believes it for there to be the ring of truth in her voice, or Ferdi would never buy it. Though she rather evades the issue, as she puts on the lilt, by focussing on the inadvisability of waking Pippin instead of whether he's over the worst.
Thanks!
Anso the Hobbit
· 21 July 2005
· Chapter 35: Wanderers Meet
Oh, this is quite a development in just one chapter! Poor hobbits, they want to heal everything with food, but Woodruff is right. Poor Merry too, he`s certianly taking this hard. And now Pip has met a man! :)
Author's reply
...but doesn't food heal all ills?
My mom seemed to think so.
Thanks!