We are being at once wisely aware of our own frivolity if we avoid hitting and whacking and prefer 'striking' and 'smiting'; talk and chat and prefer 'speech' and 'discourse'; well-bred, brilliant, or polite noblemen (visions of snobbery columns in the Press, and fat men on the Riviera) and prefer the 'worthy, brave and courteous men' of long ago.

No, my heart will not yet despair. Gandalf fell and has returned and is with us. We may stand, if only on one leg, or at least be left still upon our knees.

The realm of Suaron is ended!' said Gandalf. 'The Ring-bearer has fulfilled his Quest

Each of us embodies, in a particular tale and clothed in the garments of time & place, universal truth and everlasting life.

I'd got hobbits on my hands hadn't I?

It is wisdom to recognize necessity when all other courses have been weighed, though as folly it may appear to those who cling to false hope.

A pen is to me as a beak is to a hen.