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Jims’ questions for the Songo hung in the air between them, the young man wondering if the hobbit had either heard or understood him. The lad on the other side of the hobbit had continued to drink his own cider happily enough and replied to Jims’ earlier conversational gambit with:
"Aye, a week. Just been travellin' north mostly. I live on a farm y'see, near the quaint hamlet of Norton. It's not common others 'ave 'eard of it, but yer asked where I came from and that's my reply."
Jims pondered the possible whereabouts of the previously unheard of Norton, while the other ordered soup. Presently, the lad spoke up again, apparently not averse to exchanging the usual pleasantries of strangers finding themselves billeting at the same inn as they passed in their travels.
"The names Haves, by the by. Pleased to meet yeh. Do ya frequent this tavern often? I'm rather surpised I 'aven't heard of it, it's truly the epitomy of comfort. 'Owever it could just be the contrast between inside 'ere and that hellish storm out there."
“Pleased to make your acquaintance. I’m Jims Barleycorn.” Jims felt it safe enough to let go of Songo’s arm and extended his hand in front of the hobbit’s chest towards Haves. “I haven’t had the pleasure of visiting the Golden Perch before. This is my first time. First time in Stock actually.” Beyond that, Jims was a tad reluctant to discuss his errand in public, as a clearly stated desire for whatever ale might be available here might easily drive up the requested price. “I’ve come from Bree myself. My family owns an inn there.”
Although Jims was very much inclined to agree with his fellow traveler that the Perch was indeed a comfortable haven, far more so than the run down Rose, he felt at least enough loyalty to the family honor that he would not admit it openly. So he contented himself with, “I see you got caught in the downpour too. Upon my oath, I believe I could have outrun the rain on foot better than with that sorry excuse for a horse I brought. I wonder if the residents of Stock have a taste for horsemeat.” He grinned broadly and took a last swallow of Dick’s admirable ale.
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