Chapter Five:
A Conspiracy Unmasked
The hobbits continue along Ferry Lane and when they approach the ferry, Merry leads the way over the Brandywine River. The friendly Bucklander people, who were very fond of boats, inhabit this area of the marsh. As they are traveling, the hobbits realize that they are being followed by a dark shrouded figure. They hurry and narrowly escape. Soon they arrive at Frodo's new home in Crickhollow, which does look very much like his old home. Fatty Bolger greets them and the group is soon merry and jovial with plenty of food and drink abounding.
In discussing Frodo's future, the hobbits express their desire to help Frodo on his adventure but Frodo expresses misgivings. Eventually, his friends are forced to admit that they know much of the secrets involving Bilbo's disappearance, Gandalf's advice and the ring enabling its bearer to disappear. At first, Frodo is horrified that his friends would spy on him but in the end, he is comforted by the extent of their willingness to protect him and the sacrifices they are willing to make on his behalf in spite of their limited knowledge. Planning the journey, for Frodo cannot stay long, it is agreed that the group will avoid the main road so as to elude the Black Riders. But this forces them to sojourn in the Old Forest - a rather unpalatable option. Fatty Bolger remains at Crickhollow to keep up appearances; he will also brief Gandalf on what has transpired whenever Gandalf arrives.
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