[ksen]

If what you say is true, then the Rangers protecting the Shire is a relatively recent thing. But from the Tom Bombadil quote I posted a couple nights ago it seems that the Rangers have been about that business for quite a while.

[Corin Stormhands]

Can you post the Tom Bombadil quote again (or link to it)?

[rightwingreligiousfanatic]

I think they beefed up their protection while the Ring was there, but were always there if you know what I mean. Kind of like a heightened state of alert. A post 9/11 Ring syndrome...