[Lyra Greenleaf]

Josh leaned back contentedly and looked at the stars above him. It was good to have a proper bellyful from a proper Hobbit farm. That was one thing he had missed on the road. When Bert had offered the Hobbits the barn to sleep in, Josh had refused for his part. It was quite beautiful to look up at those stars that had been there for so long, looking down on man, beast, Hobbit, Elf and all.

Things like Pipeweed must seem rather small to them. Hobbits must seem rather small altogether! Perhaps that was right though- a small problem for a small people. Josh suddenly realised that he didn't mind being small and unimportant. Perhaps he would never meet the Elves like Bilbo Baggins, but with the Chief and his cronies out of the way he could live happily. He realised that in the end, that was what mattered. With a sigh of contentment he rolled over and slept.

NOVEMBER 2

He felt a lot less contented in the morning when he was shaken awake.
"Whassappenin?" he asked slurriedly, opening his eyes to see a concerned blonde face- no, face with blonde hair- looking down at him.

"You have to get up or we'll be late" Niluial said, shaking his shoulder again.
"Fine" he answered yawning and stretching. He stood up. From somewhere the smell of bacon was radiating around the farmyard. Josh followed his nose to the feast.

After eating, the Hobbits thanked their hosts and packed up. Josh offered Bert a copper coin for the food.
"Nay" the old Hobbit answered "I may not be one of those who'll fight for this place, but I'll help you all I can. You're welcome to some food. I've packed up some apples for you, but don't tell Tansy."

Josh tried to give the coin to Tansy, who smiled and pushed a package into his hand.
"Bread and cheese" she said with a wink. "But don't tell Bert"

Josh smiled. Hobbits!, he thought, shaking his head.