[Nurumaiel]

"He has been gone a long time, but I'm sure he'll be home soon," said Bilbo, then he looked sternly down at the hobbit girl. "Belle, it is very rude of you to call Cami Miss Hair-Puller. What would your parents say?"

Belle looked up at him, startled, "How could you know? I was only thinking it," she said.

"Ah yes," said Bilbo. "But I've heard you say it aloud before, and now is my first chance to discipline you."

Belle blushed and looked down. Bilbo smiled gently at her and said, "Just don't do it anymore. Cami is a friend of mine, you know." Belle nodded, but Bilbo wasn't sure how long she'd remember. He turned to where Primrose was sitting quietly.

"Primrose!" he called, and the lass hurried over to him. "Prim," said Bilbo quietly. "I want to talk a few things over with you away from the others. I think you should be the leader of the group. I let you in on this little secret before any of the others, and you understand the plan better than anyone else."

"Besides the fact that I have a pony and cart," Prim added.

"Ah, of course. That reminds me of something else I had to say... Oh yes, Olo. Prim, Olo wanted to know about horses. Will you explain our plan concerning them to him?"

"Certainly, Uncle Bilbo," said Prim, using her fond name for him, though he wasn't really her uncle. She stood up on a chair and raised her hands. "Everyone!" she cried. There was immediate silence.

"There are a few things Bilbo has asked me to explain to you all," she said. "Olo asked about ponies for us all. My family has about five ponies-" there were some exclamations of surprise at this "-which they would be willing to lend to you all. I also own a cartpony, who will be useful in carrying the supplies we'll need.

"Annbell, you asked how Bilbo would keep Frodo from finding out. That will indeed be a challenge; Frodo is a very intelligent lad. It will be up to us to make our plans and get our supplies in secret. I'm sure the children, who will be staying here, will keep Frodo occupied so he has no time to snoop."

Primrose glanced back at Bilbo, and then turned once again to face the crowd of hobbits. "I believe that's all you need know for now. Our group will set out tomorrow. Remember, we have only a short time before September the 22nd!

"Oh yes, one more thing," said Primrose. "It would be very kind of you if, while we're getting supplies, you could get a gift for Frodo. And," she added in a quiet tone, "for Bilbo, as well."

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]