[HairOfTheDog]

I think many are diverted early on, but we have a week! Perhaps they are all off reading up on their chapter! If they don't come around I will ping 'em again, but I am diverted myself. There are several quotable parts of this chapter that caught my eye that I want to post for discussion, it is a long one.

[Overtaxed]

Okay I read my chapter like a good little hobbit and I can't help but say "Yes!!" The Good Guys are finally mustering. Gandalf is back and he wants some action.

But there's some things that need fixing. At the gates of Edoras:

None are welcome here in days of war but our own folk, and those that come from Mundburg in the land of Gondor.

At the doors:

'I am the Doorward of Theoden,' he said. 'Hama is my name. Here I must bid you lay aside your weapons before you enter.'

Gandalf is losing his patience with this nonsense...

'Come, come!' said Gandalf. 'We are all friends here. Or should be, for the laughter of Mordor will be our only reward, if we quarrel. My errand is pressing. Here at least is my sword, goodman Hama. Keep it well. Glamdring it is called, for the Elves made it long ago. Now let me pass. Come, Aragorn!'

...and proceeds to heal the suspicion and discord that Saruman has inflicted.

'Hail, Theoden, son of Thengel! I have returned. For behold! The storm comes, and now all friends should gather together, lest each singly be destroyed.'