[Arestevana]

Elsa Whitfoot knelt by a bucket of water, happily scrubbing the breakfast dishes. It was not quite as pleasant as washing at home by the window, she reflected, and it was a little damp, but the sun was certainly cheering. When she’d finished the last dish, she dumped the dirty water in the grass and set about packing up the wagon.

Elsa saw Crispin for a moment out of the corner of her eye, but he soon disappeared behind a wagon. Kal was going to tell the children about May and Henry today. Oh, they will be so excited! Elsa forced herself to view this as a cheerful thought. They will be perfectly safe. she reminded herself. Kal knows what he’s doing.

Yes, she decided. Kalimac’s idea had been excellent. They would not be tied down looking after the children, and Alora and Crispin would be thrilled to make some new friends. It did not occur to Elsa that her children might not be pleased with the arrangement. The hobbit smiled to herself, depositing a bundle in the bed of the wagon. She wasn’t nearly so nervous about the children anymore. Why, Mr. and Mrs. Chubb had gone to collect firewood the previous evening, and May and Henry had been quite responsible while their parents were away.

Coming to the end of her tidying, Elsa happened to glance up and see May chasing Henry between the wagons. Why, she thought, What a clever game! Won’t Crispin and Alora have fun! Glancing up a moment later, she saw Kalimac talking to Henry and May. Look, his hand over his heart; no doubt telling the tweens how grateful he is. Yes, I'm right, he's shaken May's hand. Why, those children look so happy! Positively bursting with pride in such a responsibility! Elsa smiled and returned to her work.