Birthday Present by Lindelea
Nienor Niniel · 8 October 2006 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Oh, what a great gift, and a very good idea that Bilbo poked Merry into becoming a writer. I also like that Merry learns some things about Sam, Though I don't know if the Gaffer really would force Sam to return a gift... All the best, Nienor
Armariel · 13 April 2005 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Sweet and cute...Merry's voice is extremely well rendered. Altogether delightful, really nice to discover! cheers Armariel~~~{~@
Author's reply
Thank you! It's nice to meet you.
jodancingtree · 22 January 2005 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Oh, how utterly delightful! I read the part about Sam's hidden book a long time ago, but I didn't remember the fall into the old well, and Bilbo's gift was a perfectly beautiful surprise. jo
Author's reply
Glad you liked it, Jo! Want to hear something funny? I got your comment in my email today and so came here to reply and there were several other comments I'd never seen!
Larner · 29 November 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Okay, hadn't seen this one before. Am so glad Sam was able to get help in time, and love the book given to Merry.
Author's reply
Just now saw your comment (at least I think so) and so I'm replying a bit late. Thanks for taking the time to leave feedback!
Hai Took · 4 August 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Beautiful! I like the idea that it was Bilbo who inspired Merry to write his book of herblore though perhaps that is still some years off! That Merry was expecting a "jab" from Bilbo probably wan't amiss! I loved what it was though! Such a great idea!
Author's reply
Thank you, Hai, for the comment! Sorry to be so late in replying. I don't know if this hit my mailbox when you made it or not, but I don't remember seeing it before.
Frodo_Baggins · 2 August 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
beautiful! excellent writing. now if only i had time to read the sequal right now, but i'll be back. did i mention you have extrordinary style for this particular setting? very believable, very good.
Author's reply
Very late in answering reviews for this one. Sorry! Sometimes I think they didn't get sent to my mailbox, for I don't recall reading this! Thank you for the good words.
Elena Tiriel · 31 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Hi Lindelea, Yes, I suspect that Ted Sandyman was about Sam's age. Here are some quotes about Sandyman the Miller and Ted Sandyman: 'I've heard they went on the water after dinner in the moonlight,' said Old Noakes; 'and it was Drogo's weight as sunk the boat.' 'And _I_ heard she pushed him in, and he pulled her in after him,' said Sandyman, the Hobbiton miller. 'You shouldn't listen to all you hear, Sandyman,' said the Gaffer, who did not much like the miller.' ... The Fellowship of the Ring, LoTR Book 1, Ch 1, A Long-expected Party Sam Gamgee was sitting in one corner near the fire, and opposite him was Ted Sandyman, the miller's son; and there were various other rustic hobbits listening to their talk. The Fellowship of the Ring, LoTR Book 1, Ch 2, The Shadow of the Past 'Hi!' cried Sam in an outraged voice. 'There's that Ted Sandyman a-cutting down trees as he shouldn't. They didn't ought to be felled: it's that avenue beyond the Mill that shades the road to Bywater. I wish I could get at Ted, and I'd fell _him_!' The Fellowship of the Ring, LoTR Book 2, Ch 7, The Mirror of Galadriel 'Take Sandyman's mill now. Pimple [Lotho Sackville-Baggins] knocked it down almost as soon as he came to Bag End. Then he brought in a lot o' dirty-looking Men to build a bigger one and fill it full o' wheels and outlandish contraptions. Only that fool Ted was pleased by that, and he works there cleaning wheels for the Men, where his dad was the Miller and his own master.' The Return of the King, LoTR Book 6, Ch 8, The Scouring of the Shire Hope this helps! - Barbara
Author's reply
Thank you, it does help! Funny, in all these years, and many re-readings, that somehow I never differentiated between Sandyman the Miller and Ted his son. Or maybe I did, at some time, but... In any event, that's clearer in my head now. Author Reply: I think it's all fixed now, both in this story and in "Aged to Perfection", which used to be chapter 4 and is now a story in its own right. Thanks again!
Auntiemeesh · 31 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Good old Bilbo. I love that he knew Merry well enough to leave him that journal. I also liked that Merry expected a 'jab' but didn't get one :) I'm curious about chapter four. Is there a larger story wrapped around that? Another incidence of Merry falling in a well? I would love to see that.
Author's reply
Yes, and it's here on SoA at: http://www.storiesofarda.com/chapterlistview.asp?SID=290 It is called "All's Well That Ends Well" and is set in Minas Tirith just after Beregond's "trial" or whatever it would be called. Thanks for asking!
Bluegrass Elf · 30 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Beautiful! How wonderful!
Author's reply
Thanks!
Annis · 30 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
woops, this IS the end after all. Too bad there isn't any more, as I would very much like to read more of this story...
Author's reply
Well, I'm one to go on and on, and my editor is one who says "Quit while you're ahead." Sometimes I have my way and write oodles of chapters, and sometimes she has her way. Guess she'll be happy to read your comment. She's always saying, "Leave 'em wanting more."
Annis · 30 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
wow! This is just great! I love the writing style you've used, it's very conversational and hobbity and well suited to this story. Thank you for this lovely story, I can't wait for more.
Author's reply
As I said just now, thanks! Who knows what inspiration might strike. Merry's always been my favourite of the Fab Foursome. O wait, that name's already been used for another purpose.
Anso the Hobbit · 30 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Oh but this was lovely! I want more! Suddenly getting Frodo`s perspective was a bit confusing at first, but it was fun with all the side comments for Pip to behave. Such a wonderful story... *sigh* You need to write more Merry pov, please? And the gift (I almsot forgot) was so great! Beautifully done.
Author's reply
Thank you! I have to admit, I put the maps in just for you! I loved your version of shirebound's plot bunny.
Jeodo Brandybuck · 29 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
I'm so delighted with your story. I've been keeping an eye out for lovely hobbit-fiction, and thought that this one filled the bill for what I've been looking for. Thanks for an absolutely wonderful read,with very true and hobbity characters, and wonderful depictions of our favorites -- Pippin's depiction being added by the admonitions as the story unfolded. What fun!! Congratulations on a great job! Jeodo Brandybuck
Author's reply
Thank you! Sometimes it's more fun to imply a character (by other characters' reactions) than to directly write that character. Kind of like drawing negative space (we took an art workshop this week, hehe! Never knew I could draw! Still can't really, but have an inkling now how it works.)
Pearl Took · 29 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
*Applause!* A wonderful story, as usual. Perfect where Bilbo left Merry's gift and what the gift was. And I absolutely love the way you worked in Old Rory's gift and his proclaiming Bilbo "a capital fellow" after the first bottle!!! Wonderful! My answer to the poll: leave chapter #4. I like it. I like having someone other than Merry telling the parts he was unaware of at the time, and I love all the asides to Pippin. :-) VWD!!! ;-)
FantasyFan · 29 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Bet you probably never thought you'd hear something like this from me, who's so fond of Our Beloved Ringbearer, but I'd take out Frodo's chapter. I thought the switch in tone and point of view was distracting and all the necessary information is in Merry's chapter. It really is Merry's story to tell, and the more dramatic telling of the rescue by Frodo almost takes a little away from what I felt was the core of the story, Merry's reactions to Bilbo leaving. The only thing that would be missing if the chapter was removed would be a little of the emphasis on the Old Winyards, but you could probably change a few words and heighten that if you chose. Of course, just my opinion.
Author's reply
My editor is in full, enthusiastic, head-nodding agreement with you. I'm reluctantly in agreement, for I hate to cut anything, but chapters 1,2,3 and 5 flow nicely and are complete in themselves, and 4 is a bit of a disruption. I'm always cutting background before I even post stories, though sometimes I manage to sneak it in if I've done some revising since my last discussion with my editor-friend who acts as a sounding board, grammarian, and plot-hole finder. I write lots of background (while outlining a story) that readers don't see (sometimes my editor tells me to work it in, more often she tells me to leave it out; just knowing it's "there" adds layers to the story in my head which shows in the writing, I think)--perhaps I'll publish a series of appendices someday. No, wait, that's already been done, and better. My editor-friend, however, tells me she's figured out a way to save Frodo's chapter, based on comments someone made. I read through all the reviews just now and can't figure out who it was suggested a separate story from Frodo's POV (and then one from Sam's) but I've had too much strong tea and my brain's scrambled, sorry whoever you are! Anyhow, we've worked out how to do that separate story and will hopefully have a successful surgical separation soon. Author Reply: Ah, found the suggestion-maker. Bodkin. Got to give credit where it's due.
Elena Tiriel · 29 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
I just stumbled on this, and my reaction is: What an absolutely delightful story! You can really see how Merry would develop into the person who writes "Herblore of the Shire" years later... Bilbo sure knew how to encourage Merry's talent! I'd leave all five chapters, but, really, it's *your* opinion that counts! Really enjoyed reading this, thank you! - Barbara P.S. A minor canon note: Sandyman the Miller (whose first name Tolkien unfortunately neglected to tell us) is the father of Ted Sandyman... two separate folks.
Author's reply
Thank you for the canon note. I will correct that. Where could I find the reference to Sandyman the Miller? Somehow I always thought Ted Sandyman was the miller... I guess he could have been miller's son and then inherited the Mill. Was he about Samwise's age, do you think? Thanks for the feedback!
Dreamflower · 29 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Oh my no! Don't take out Ch. 4.! I do love this story--instead of taking anything out, maybe a little epilogue in Minas Tirith, with Beregond's family, and one of them providing Merry with a little addition for the book, such as some dried athelas or some such thing? Oh, listen to me giving you suggestions--it's a lovely story, and I just want a bit more of it, LOL! And by the way, whether it is Merry or Frodo, you did wonderfully in the first person voice, capturing both their personalities just fine!
Author's reply
O good, glad they sounded in character. I was afraid I'd get "dinged" for making Frodo sound too cheerful. I'd love to write more, but my editor assures me it would ruin the "carefully crafted structure and balance" of the story. Sometimes I think she uses this jargon to get her way... but I find she's got good instincts most of the time, anyhow. Thanks!
Bodkin · 29 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
What a lovely ending - and how great that Bilbo saw something of himself in Merry's inquisitiveness and desire to know about things, together with his love of the Shire and growing things. Keep chapter 4. I like the different tone. Or if you really want to take it out, do a different version of the day from Frodo's point of view. Which could then become a version from Sam . . . and others. I like Merry. Probably more than Pippin. He is very giving and extremely loyal to those who have won his love. And actually pretty bright.
Author's reply
Ah, here it is! I almost didn't find this review, it had spilled onto another page. Thanks for the suggestion; yes, chapter 4 is about to become a separate story. I hate to throw it out, for I *like* this version of Frodo. I can see him having cheerful moments in Minas Tirith, and not walking around shrouded in gloom all the time. Merry has always been my favourite hobbit, from the first time I read LOTR. It's funny that I write Pippin and Ferdibrand more than I do Merry. I think I worry, deep down, about doing Merry an injustice and getting him "wrong" somehow.
Connie B. · 28 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Fond Farewell
Aahh. That was such a sweet ending. Merry really is a special person and Bilbo obviously saw his qualities at an early age. What a perfect gift. Don't change a thing! I like it just the way it is. I may be in the minority, but I like it as is. Connie B.
Author's reply
Actually, you're in the majority, but I've been argued round to taking out chapter four by the simple expedient of my editor-friend sending me a file with chapters 1,2,3,5 and telling me to read it through without stopping. Then I had to read through what's posted on SoA, without stopping. Yes, chapter 4 is an interruption. Sometimes I don't agree with my editor and I put my foot down ("It's your story!" she says cheerfully as if there were never a disagreement in the first place) and keep what she's trying to cut, especially if I've made an appeal to readers and they argue that the "background" is actually necessary to the progression of the plot. But more often, she's right. Dunno what I'd do without her. So glad she's willing to work for pay in the form of written word. (She gets to see all the stories, start to finish, before anybody else.) But be comforted, for Frodo's chapter will soon have its own home, as part of a separate story. Thanks!
Dreamflower · 23 July 2004 · Chapter 3: Into Shadow
Oh dear! Well, we know that he gets out--I hope without too much trouble! Sam's gone for help though. It's a good thing they were together!
Dreamflower · 23 July 2004 · Chapter 2: By the Book
Ah, clever Merry! I've always thought he and Sam were good friends, and this is just the kind of thing he would have done. I can just see the wheels turning in his head! Beautiful. (And he *is* going to take Pip fishing, isn't he?)8-)
Dreamflower · 23 July 2004 · Chapter 1: Two's Company
Oh, this is a wonderful start, and in Merry's POV. I love the way he just stood back and watched while Frodo dealt with Sanco! And Merry's voice--I'm assuming that this narrative is taking place much later when he's already an adult,as he sounds very mature. Maybe Post-Quest?
Connie · 22 July 2004 · Chapter 4: Aged to Perfection
Thank goodness you got him out of there quickly. Nice tie-in to your story of Merry falling down the well in Minas Tirith. The night cap was a nice humorous touch. Thanks. Connie.
Author's reply
You're welcome and thanks for commenting!
Grey Wonderer · 21 July 2004 · Chapter 3: Into Shadow
Poor Merry! I hope Sam is quick. Sam is always in need of rope for some reason isn't he? Love how this is from Merry's POV. ’ Perhaps he wasn’t the half-wit his father made him out to be. I had suspected as much for a long while now. Love how Merry was trying to work out how intellgent Sam might be now that he really needed him. It's also a nice glance at how others might see Sam if they view him through only his father's eyes. Frodo was probably buried in a book at that very moment, in front of a crackling fire in the study, no thought of supper (and cousin) having yet occurred to him. Such a good picture of the Frodo we know and love on this part. Well, waiting for more and enjoy this very much.
Author's reply
Thanks for commenting! Wrote a draft of chapter 4 but am not sure if it fits the tone of the previous chapters. Will have to let it "age" a day or two and then take another look.
Hai Took · 21 July 2004 · Chapter 3: Into Shadow
I like how you have been writing it all as if Merry is narrating the story. Merry's own present thoughts filtering as he tells the tale is wonderful! Good of him to think of something to do with Sam's book from Bilbo, very creative! I hope Sam is a good runner! If he is going to get help for Merry he had better be fast! Looking forward to more!
Author's reply
Have posted more, though not sure if chapter 4 will remain as is or if it will be heavily edited when my editor comes back from vacation.