CHAPTER 3: THREE IS COMPANY

Gandalf advises Frodo to depart soon and secretly, recommending Rivendell, but allows a delay until autumn. Frodo sells Bag End to the Sackville-Bagginses under the pretense of moving to Buckland. Gandalf abruptly leaves to seek news, warning Frodo not to use the Ring, and fails to return by Frodo’s birthday, deepening Frodo’s unease.

With Merry and friends helping pack, Frodo sends goods ahead to Crickhollow. After Lobelia and Lotho inspect Bag End, Frodo, Sam, and Pippin slip out at night across fields to avoid notice. The Gaffer had earlier told a strange inquirer that Frodo had moved to Bucklebury, unknowingly aiding Frodo’s pursuers.

The trio travels quietly through the Green Hill Country toward the Woody End. On the road, a cloaked Black Rider on a great horse stops and seems to sniff for Frodo, stirring an urge in Frodo to put on the Ring; the rider moves on. Learning from Sam that a similar figure asked for Frodo in Hobbiton, they leave the road to avoid detection.

At dusk another Black Rider approaches and crawls toward their hiding place, but the arrival and song of a wandering company of High Elves drives it away. Gildor Inglorion greets Frodo, recognizes him as Bilbo’s friend, and invites the hobbits to lodge with them for the night.

In a woodland hall above Woodhall, the Elves feast and sing. Frodo quietly questions Gildor about the world’s darkening, Bilbo’s travels, and the Black Riders. Gildor confirms they serve the Enemy but withholds details, warning that peril surrounds Frodo and urging him to go at once, not alone, and not to wait for the overdue Gandalf. He names Frodo Elf-friend, promises to spread word of their journey, and bids them hope as they sleep.