The Lord of the Rings, #1
The Fellowship of the Ring
by J. R. R. Tolkien
Contents
CHAPTER 4: A SHORT CUT TO MUSHROOMS
Overview
Frodo, Sam, and Pippin cut across country toward Bucklebury Ferry, narrowly avoiding a Black Rider and hearing ominous cries. At Farmer Maggot’s, they learn a Rider is searching for “Baggins.” Maggot feeds them and drives them to the Ferry, where the feared rider proves to be Merry.
Summary
At dawn, Frodo, Sam, and Pippin breakfast on provisions left by the Elves. Frodo debates taking his friends further into danger but accepts Sam’s unwavering resolve after Sam describes a newfound purpose from meeting the Elves. Frodo decides to head straight for Bucklebury Ferry by cutting across country.
The shortcut proves difficult: thick thickets, a stream crossing, and rain slow them. They glimpse a Black Rider above their descent bank, confirming pursuit, and later hear chilling, word-like wails on the wind. Emerging south of their intended line, they press across open fields toward the River as fear ebbs in familiar farmland.
Pippin recognizes Farmer Maggot’s land. Despite Frodo’s childhood fear from mushroom raids, they enter the lane and meet Farmer Maggot and his fierce dogs. Inside, over ale, Maggot reports a cloaked black horseman recently rode to his door asking for “Baggins,” offering gold for news. Maggot rebuffed him and warns Frodo to avoid outlandish trouble, but also offers help.
As dusk falls, Maggot proposes to drive them by waggon to the Ferry. In thickening fog near the Ferry lane, approaching hoofbeats halt them—only for the rider to be revealed as Merry Brandybuck, searching for them. After farewells, Maggot departs, leaving a basket of mushrooms. The hobbits’ fears ease as they reach the Ferry with Merry.
Who Appears
- Frodo BagginsLeads a cross-country push to Bucklebury Ferry, fears Riders, reconciles with Farmer Maggot, and accepts Maggot’s aid.
- Farmer MaggotStern but kind Marish farmer; reports a Black Rider seeking Baggins, feeds the hobbits, and drives them to the Ferry.
- Samwise GamgeeAffirms steadfast loyalty after meeting Elves; spots danger, urges caution, and stands ready to confront any Rider.
- Peregrin (Pippin) TookQuestions Frodo, guides local terrain, brokers peace with Maggot, and travels by waggon toward the Ferry.
- Meriadoc (Merry) BrandybuckMeets them at the Ferry in fog; the supposed rider revealed to be him, easing immediate fears.
- Mrs. MaggotHosts the hobbits for supper and sends Frodo off with a basket of mushrooms.
- Grip, Fang, and Wolf (Farmer Maggot’s dogs)Ferocious farm dogs who initially threaten but stand down at Maggot’s command.