Dreamflower
· 31 July 2007
· Chapter 9: In which young hobbits discover the perils of a watery grave, and have a narrow escape
Oh my! That *was* a close call!
Merry was so earnest, and well-versed even at that young age, on the dangers of rivers and streams--the Brandywine and Brandy Hall are good teachers! And I'm sure that Frodo drilled that message into his little cousin constantly, to protect him from the fate that befell his parents.
And then for them to flee the searchers! Silly little hobbits!
Author's reply
Yes, I'm sure that the message is word-for-word quoted from Frodo. Can you imagine the first occasion when it might have been spoken?
It is a wonder to me that small children have been known to hide from rescuers, but having read enough news accounts, I'm convinced it happens, whether I understand it or not.
And yes, it was a close call, and a good thing that Frodo had drilled Merry in what to do when grabbed by someone drowning--push them under water until they let go, and *then* rescue them.
Larner
· 4 July 2007
· Chapter 8: Meanwhile
The mothers must have been terrified indeed! And while youngsters sleep by streams their elders search everywhere and are frightened out of their wits.
Poor Eglantine and Stelliana, not to mention Esme, hiding from her fear in the caring for the others.
Have a wonderful Fourth. Have a barbecue with our clients, and get to work all night tomorrow. BUT, I get Friday off, although I have to go in Saturday morning at seven. Such tradeoffs we do for one another....
Love to the girls, hubby, and the Writing Partner! Heh!
Author's reply
I know that horrible feeling in the pit of the stomach... poor mums.
Hope you have a wonderful BBQ. We haven't quite decided where to go on this sweltering day. Have spent the morning housecleaning and don't know yet what to do for evening--wherever we go it's sure to be packed with people and I'm not much for crowds, though I truly love fireworks. (Wish we knew someone with a houseboat by the River... the display is supposed to be the biggest ever this year.)
Dreamflower
· 2 July 2007
· Chapter 8: Meanwhile
Whee!! Yaaay!!
Uh...oh...I mean, poor Stelliana and Esmeralda and Eglantine. Yes, that's what I meant! So worried about those little straying lads! This really makes up for the way they never knew Pip was gone in "A Healer's Tale"!
And it's a lovely birthday present to see it updated! Thanks, ever so, Lin dear!
Author's reply
*hugs*
Happy birthday! (My goodness, the gift that just keeps on giving... here's hoping it's finished before the *next* birthday rolls around.)
You're most welcome!
Dreamflower
· 30 March 2007
· Chapter 7: In which two young hobbits set out in search of justice, that a wrong may be set right again
Oh Lin! You've no idea how lovely it was to see this yesterday morning! I printed it out, and took it with me to the hospital to read while waiting! I would have reviewed yesterday, but I was kind of snowed for a while when I got home, and then my 'net was down 'till this morning.
This was just adorable--I loved all the asides and comments from the listeners, and I could just picture these two little tykes wandering in the Shire equivalent of the wilderness, LOL! Poor tiny Ferdi, with his blankie, saying "are we there yet?" and little Merry, all serious, and remembering every little thing Frodo's ever told him. It's just a shame he has no idea about distance, poor baby! LOL!
But I'm wondering about the reaction at Whitwell when they realize they're gone--unlike when Pippin went off and they never knew until later, the adults are going to notice all too soon that their wee ones are gone!
Thank you, thank you for this!!
Author's reply
Oh, hurrah. That's kind of what I was hoping, and why I stayed up an extra hour to get it in. Hope you're feeling better today, and that the test results turn out well.
Babes in the woods!
Yes, the reaction at Whitwell... coming soon, I hope.
You're most verily welcome. *hugs*
Bodkin
· 30 March 2007
· Chapter 7: In which two young hobbits set out in search of justice, that a wrong may be set right again
Are we nearly there yet?
Ferdi already shows a lot of the qualities that will stand him in good stead in later life. (Poor Ferdi. The happiest days of his life. Words that have an extra truth when looking at his fate. At least until the King comes back.)
I do like the asides from the 'current' part of the tale! You can tell that the participants in the chat are good friends, with a really deep understanding of and affection for each other.
Author's reply
Have heard a lot of "Are we nearly there yet?"
Funny thing, in our co-op class today we were discussing the "Herbs and Stewed Rabbit" chapter, and how it was portrayed in the film (fairly true to the text, for a change), and how much the bickering reminded us (co-teachers) of driving with feuding children in the back seat. We joked how we could almost envision Frodo gripping the steering wheel with white knuckles and turning around in his seat to scold.
Nice insight on the relationship. That's just what I was aiming for.
(Sigh. Alas, poor Ferdi. I knew him well. And now the Muse wants to tell a story about how Pippin realised that Ferdi was still carrying a torch for Nell, and how he and Odo conspired to bring the two together. Are people getting tired of Ferdi, yet?)
Larner
· 29 March 2007
· Chapter 7: In which two young hobbits set out in search of justice, that a wrong may be set right again
Love the final bantering.
"Are we there yet?" The plaint of children (and donkeys) of all races, I fear.
Lovely reasoning.
I well remember the time I decided to ride my bike to Ohop Lake. Knew the way, but had no concept of the distance. I didn't make it a quarter of the way before I knew I must turn back or I'd not be home by sunset, which was my biking curfew. Mom was most upset, for I'd not told her where I was riding, of course, and I was much later than I usually was and missed dinner. I was forbidden my weekend bicycle ramble for three weeks, IIRC.
Love to the children and hubby.
Author's reply
Children and hubby send their warmest regards.
Dh tells sometimes how he decided one day to run around the local lake. Forty-some miles? Ah, the optimism of the young.
Looking forward to seeing you again.
Bodkin
· 3 March 2007
· Chapter 6: In which a young hobbit discovers that naps can be a very useful practice, indeed
Eglantine will regret taking that nap! And learn to be much more suspicious about the activities of small hobbits.
Author's reply
I figure it's excellent training for her to have before Pippin's arrival!
Bodkin
· 3 March 2007
· Chapter 5: In which a young hobbit’s resolve grows, and he decides to set his plan into motion, in the interest of justice
I love the backchat among those sitting around the fire and looking back!
And Merry and his sense of justice! Aunt Aggie should have her pretties, even if the lasses should be clothed in sackcloth.
Andrea
· 27 February 2007
· Chapter 6: In which a young hobbit discovers that naps can be a very useful practice, indeed
Wonderful story, Lindelea!
That's our Merry, indeed! Always planning things, with the maps in his mind! I wonder how far he'll make it! I'd like to see the looks on the old Mayor's face when confronted with the little hobbit lad, though. But, who knows?
I also liked it that more than once Merry wanted his Frodo to be there, and I would very much appreciate it if that would come true.
I'm looking forward to reading more!
Author's reply
Thanks! Ah, yes, Merry and maps. Sort of go together, don't they?
You know, it's just possible that Frodo will get dragged into this...
harrowcat
· 26 February 2007
· Chapter 6: In which a young hobbit discovers that naps can be a very useful practice, indeed
It is only quarter to nine in the morning but I wish someone would let me sneak back into bed for a nap instead of dashing off to work! Loved this Lindelea.
Author's reply
It's a quarter to eleven (at night) here, and I'm about to sneak into bed. Lovely feeling.
Thanks!
Larner
· 25 February 2007
· Chapter 6: In which a young hobbit discovers that naps can be a very useful practice, indeed
How wonderful to see something new, Lindelea! And poor Eglantine, thinking the two lads are sleeping. Not with young master Merry about, I fear. Now, how far will he managed to get?
Author's reply
Hmm. I wonder just how far a small hobbit would be likely to get? He's got a good idea of direction, but his grasp of distance is rather lacking.
Dreamflower
· 25 February 2007
· Chapter 6: In which a young hobbit discovers that naps can be a very useful practice, indeed
*grin* How lovely to find still more of this.
I do so love this glimpse of the always-thinking, long-range planning Merry. He's just so adorable here, making all his little schemes--but based on the faulty information and overly optimistic outlook of a very small child!
*giggle* I love the thought of all those who are listening to this, and what they are thinking about it, LOL!
Author's reply
Yes, I find very small children often overly optimistic.
Youngest wanted to take apart the antique pump organ yesterday, and again today, to repair the mouse damage (mice have chewed one of the cords going from pedals to bellows), and I intercepted the screwdriver just in time. The child is determined to "fix great-grandma's organ" so that it can be played properly once more.
harrowcat
· 20 October 2006
· Chapter 5: In which a young hobbit’s resolve grows, and he decides to set his plan into motion, in the interest of justice
Have you been reading Dickens recently Lindelea? These titles are great! And I just love the asides - as well as the tale of course! *g*
Author's reply
I went through a "Dickens" stage where I read lots of his stuff, but he's not the only one to use chapter headings that summarize the happenings in the chapter. Can't remember who else I'm thinking of right now, but they're fun!
(belated) Thanks!
Larner
· 17 October 2006
· Chapter 5: In which a young hobbit’s resolve grows, and he decides to set his plan into motion, in the interest of justice
So--a younger cousin Ferdi was better than a sheepdog? Aragorn must indeed be smiling!
Author's reply
I'd smile, too, if I were Aragorn. Ah, hobbits...
Dreamflower
· 17 October 2006
· Chapter 5: In which a young hobbit’s resolve grows, and he decides to set his plan into motion, in the interest of justice
Oh, this is **so** Merry! Precocious, a planner, a very strong sense of fairness and justice, and extremely observant for his age! Oh dear me!
And I love the asides: "My word, Pippin, is there something in the water at Whittacres Farm that encourages young hobbits to wander at such a tender age?" "Followed me everywhere, he did, drove me half out of my wits with his persistence! Difficult to get away from him, and the questions he would constantly be asking...!
Ah, Ferdi, I see you gave Merry plenty of practice in dealing with younger cousins before Pippin came along...
Plenty of practice indeed!" "Indeed, I myself am waiting with bated breath. Do go on, before I turn blue... Not my best colour, you know. Green suits me rather better...
Enough, Ferdi! (Thanks, yes, this brandy grows better with every sip.) Now, let me see..."
I am loving this so much!! *VBG!*
Author's reply
Very very very belated birthday present, now...
Hope you are enjoying your new home. No time even to visit LJ--just spent a stolen hour typing this in, and now must turn my attention once more to RL.
But hope this finds you well!
Bodkin
· 1 October 2006
· Chapter 4: In which a young hobbit contemplates the unfairness of life in general and his life in particular
Poor Ferdi! He's only a little lad - being trained up for terrorhood by his cousin Merry and condemned to a tea of bread and butter - while the orc-like sisters eat cake.
But their penalty will last longer ... no ribbons and laces for their sweet, pretty faces!
And Ferdi might be young, but he sees through to the right of it!
I do like the background conversations going on in 'modern times' as the tale of Merry and Ferdi is told. 'Present company excepted', of course!
Author's reply
Trained for terrorhood by one who was trained by the terror of Buckland. Sounds like the beginning of a legacy to me.
It was amusing to me that missing one tea of apple tart for the lads was seen as equivalent to a year without frills for the lasses. The way to a hobbit's heart is his stomach, I've heard.
Thanks!
Larner
· 28 September 2006
· Chapter 4: In which a young hobbit contemplates the unfairness of life in general and his life in particular
So, now they're going to involve poor Frodo, are they? Alas, Frodo Baggins, your cousin has PLANS! Heh!
Author's reply
"Plans" -- a word to strike terror into the hearts of older cousins, I think.
Larner
· 28 September 2006
· Chapter 3: In which a young hobbit discovers the delights of forbidden filth
Oh, hilarious, with small Ferdi insisting on staying limp to defy the lasses! Oh, this is a rich one! Dear Ferdi and Merry!
Dreamflower
· 28 September 2006
· Chapter 4: In which a young hobbit contemplates the unfairness of life in general and his life in particular
Oh dear! *grin* Merry has *thinking* to do, has he? *snort* Yes, indeed! I have a feeling that Merry's "thinking" may easily live up to any subsequent "thinking" Pippin might have come up with years later, LOL!
However, I do have to say--I kind of agree with him that it's unfair for the lasses to get off so lightly. At the very least, they should have also missed the nice parts of the tea as well, for pilfering is certainly a more serious and premeditated offense than bolting into the pigpen! And while the lack of lace and ribbon might be bemoaned, it's not quite so immediate a bit of justice. But then, life's not fair is it? Especially when you are young.
And Merry may have miscalculated his father's reaction to the episode.
(Oh and I love all the interruptions and asides:
Come now, I was not such a babe as all that!
O but you were, sorry to say, cousin—it must be remembered that you were quite a little lad at the time, barely out of gowns...
Poor little fellow, I feel quite sorry for him...
You stay out of it, Pip! You were still a twinkle in your da’s eyes, at the time...!
And
‘Silly Took!’ Merry said, slapping Ferdi on the back and standing to his feet for some proper bouncing. ‘There’s no king!’
I beg to differ.
Present company excepted. Now, where was I...?
made me giggle out loud!
I have to say, it's very nice having my birthday dragged all the way through September...
Author's reply
Glad you don't mind the extended birthday. After all, Miss Dora herself said something about a time limit on present-giving. This might be terribly rude, in the Shire! (But then, maybe not. Hobbits seem to love stories.)
I was glad to read the lines you picked out, especially the King's quiet comment. Why, he was so quiet I didn't even know he was present, until that moment!
Thanks!
harrowcat
· 28 September 2006
· Chapter 4: In which a young hobbit contemplates the unfairness of life in general and his life in particular
Hmm punishments to fit the crime methinks! And, somehow, I don't think that a certain father is necessarily going to take his lad's side. I do like your 'voices off' effect!
Author's reply
LOL, I hadn't realised the king himself was there, listening, until just that moment! *g*
Larner
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 2: In which larger sisters are likened to orcs, or perhaps trolls
What--this bottle of spirits is merely passable? From Aragorn's own cellar? I can barely credit that, then! Poor Ferdi--the image of the poor child standing there while a "gown" is created around and upon him is hilarious! Poor, poor lad! But he's been rescued, taken from the pan and about to be introduced to at least the embers, I suspect! Heh!
Author's reply
Well, compared to Buckland's finest, yes, it's just passable. After all, the Brandywine runs by Buckland, and it didn't get its name by accident...
"At least the embers" - heh!
Larner
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 1: In which the hobbits try to establish that adventures are not all that common
And a most intriguing beginning, Lindelea. Wish I had time to read on now! Maybe later once I get things back online once more....
Author's reply
Nice to hear from you! I've been very busy with RL and really ought not to be dabbling in fanfic *at all* this week, but it really is relaxing...
Larner
· 15 September 2006
· Chapter 0: Introductory Note
Glad to see Dreamflower's plotbunny has found its desired expression at last.
Author's reply
Yes, she's quite clever with the plotbunnies! But I tell you, my brain certainly had to be stretched, to imagine a five- and seven-year-old having an adventure... you'd think such little ones wouldn't be let out of an older one's sight, considering how vulnerable they'd be to foxes, and perhaps hawks or owls.
Bodkin
· 12 September 2006
· Chapter 3: In which a young hobbit discovers the delights of forbidden filth
Between his sister and his cousins and his mother, young Ferdi is in danger of becoming a bit of a wuss. It's just as well that Merry is there to bring out the stalker and the archer and the generally resilient hobbit we know and love. Although maybe that doesn't seem the case just at the moment!
Author's reply
Well, perhaps then this is the beginning of putting paid to future possibilities of wussiness. Ferdi's going to find out he's not just a babe-in-arms, at the mercy and whim of those who are "older and wiser" but a hobbit in his own right...
harrowcat
· 12 September 2006
· Chapter 3: In which a young hobbit discovers the delights of forbidden filth
Ooh! 'Mud, mud, glorious mud! Nothing quite like it for cooling the blood!' &g* But I'm not sure that I'd want to share it with the pigs!
Author's reply
Did you just make that up, or is it a poem from somewhere? Sounds a little like Gilbert and Sullivan, whom the little hobbits have just discovered through a local production of "Pirates of Penzance".