9. Fairbairns

Elanor’s baking a feast and refuses to let me help. Robin joins her in the kitchen while the grandchildren, six in all, keep me company. I tell them a few stories and they make up songs. After luncheon, we go out for a walk about the town. Elfstan’s eager for me to meet his lass, Iris. Together, they glow with first love and I feel a pang of longing for my Rose looking at them. 

Once my legs are stretched and my back loosened, I feel better. I take a nap shortly after returning and wake up feeling refreshed. Fastred’s home from his warden duties by then. We chinwag in the study until it’s time for supper.

I watch and listen as we eat. The children hang off their father’s every word, and Fastred gazes lovingly at Elanor at every opportunity. They joke easily, talk over each other and pass the dishes around like a dance in perfect synchrony. I know then they’ll be all right, all my children and grandchildren.

The grandchildren work on their projects after supper. Elfstan, May and little Samwise have their studies. Tonight’s subject is Bandobras Took and they take turns telling the story to Celandine and Tulip. Wee Rolo crawls between them wanting to play, so it’s a long time afore the lesson’s over. 

Once Robin’s seeing to getting the children abed, I pull out the Red Book and give it to Elanor. “I’ve told everyone to send you any corrections or additions,” I say as it exchanges hands. She hugs it to herself and though she tears up, she doesn’t cry. “It’s for you to tell the story now.”

“The Tale of Frodo the Ringbearer and Samwise the Stouthearted,” she says and smiles. She knows the story well. It will never be forgotten.