Summary

Chapter 15. The dwarves have still not seen any sign of the dragon, but they know that something unusual has happened by the presence of numerous birds. The thrush that told Bard of the dragon’s weakness helps the dwarves out by bringing them a raven that speaks their language. The raven tells the dwarves that Smaug is dead and that the elves and the Men of the lake are coming to lay claim to the treasure. The raven cautions Thorin to not trust the Master of the town, but assures him of the trustworthiness of Bard. He councils the dwarf to deal fairly with Bard and give him a portion of the treasure since part of it belongs to the people of Dale. Thorin refuses to consider the thought, seeing the men as thieves. He asks that the raven send messengers to his kin, including...