The Two Towers Book 4, Chapter 6

Faramir wakes Frodo and tells him that he wants his advice. They walk through twisting tunnels. "As he went by the cave-mouth he saw that the Curtain was now become a dazzling veil of silk and pearls and silver thread: melting icicles of moonlight." Book 4, Chapter 6, pg. 370. They come to an opening and look over the land, rivers and mountains in the distance. Sam remarks that it is a fine view and Faramir offers them some wine. They look down and see a dark shape swimming in the water. Faramir's guard asks if he should shoot it, but Frodo asks them to spare it. Faramir wonders what it is and says that he has marveled at its sneakiness. Frodo tells him that the creature is lured by the Ring which he bore for a long time. Now it is seeking fish. The guard asks again if he should shoot and Frodo says that it is just wretched and hungry. He tells Faramir that Gandalf forbade them to harm it. Faramir says the creature must be captured or killed. Frodo tells him that he will speak to it. Faramir agrees and Frodo descends to the edge of the pool to hear the sound of Gollum speaking to himself. Frodo is torn between mercy and having the beast killed once and for all.

He speaks out and demands for Smeagol to follow him. Smeagol hesitates, but Frodo voices a threat. He follows the hobbit with a fish in his mouth and one in his hand; Frodo feels guilty that he is tricking Gollum. They walk up to the cavern, and when Gollum looks around he realizes that the room is filled with men. They tie him up and he screams, spitting at Frodo. Frodo is still upset that he betrayed Gollum's trust. The guard carries him deeper into the caverns and he asks to be released. Faramir explains that the penalty for sneaking into their secret realm is death. Frodo tries to speak to Gollum to make him answer Faramir's questions. He has Gollum promise on the Ring that he will never return to the grove.

Faramir officially declares Frodo free in every part of Gondor and announces that Gollum will be allowed to live as long as he is in the service of the two hobbits. Frodo tells Faramir that they are heading to Minas Ithil to enter Mordor. Faramir thinks that the hobbits are unwise in traveling with Gollum. Frodo explains that if they don't follow Smeagol they will have to worry about being followed by him. Faramir again warns them that the path they chose is perilous at best. He confirms that there are fewer guards there, but they are evil. Frodo says "'But where else will you direct me?'" Book 4, Chapter 6, pg. 383. Faramir admits that he knows of no other way, but again pleads that he be wary of Smeagol. He blesses Frodo and bids him to rest while they prepare food for their journey.

Topic Tracking: Metamorphoses 10