Sam´s "magic" rope?

[Lostgaeriel]

For reference:
(Since no one else has bothered to give us any of the relevant quotes. [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img] )

...And they added also coils of rope, three to each boat. Slender they looked, but strong, silken to the touch, grey of hue like the elven-cloaks.
'What are these?' asked Sam, handling one that lay upon the greensward.
'Ropes indeed!' answered an Elf from the boats. 'Never travel far without a rope! And one that is long and strong and light. Such are these. They many be a help in many needs.'
'You don't need to tell me that!' said Sam. 'i came without any, and I've been worried ever since. But I was wondering what these were made of, knowing a bit about rope-making: it's in the family as you might say.'
'They are made of hithlain,' said the Elf, 'but there is no time now to instruct you in the art of their making. Had we known that this craft delighted you, we could have taught you much. But now alas! unless you should at some time return hither, you must be content with our gift. May it serve you well!'

Farewell to Lothlórien

Sam is familiar with the craft of rope-making, yet these ropes are strange to him - apparently because the material is unknown to him. But it seems that the Elf suggests that the technique of making hithlain rope is different than the making of ordinary hemp rope. The Elves are willing to share the 'secrets' of this technology or craft with their friends - especially with eager students. Is the rope 'magical'? Or is it just high-tech?

[ October 31, 2002: Message edited by: Lostgaeriel ]