Happenings at the Pony

Christopher Tolkien published some interesting pieces in the chapter At the sign of The Prancing Pony. Much of the interaction between Frodo, Butterbur (still Barnabus) and Trotter (still a hobbit) is the same as it was and begins to align closer to the published version.

However, there is an interesting version where Tolkien tells of Gandalf's arrival in Bree with Odo the hobbit. Not being recounted to Frodo by Butterbur but actual point in time narrative. It's clear the wizard is desperate to find Frodo asking both Harry the Gatekeeper and Butterbur about news of four hobbits on five ponies. All they can say is he is not the first to ask about such a party. Gandalf is also very deliberate in making sure he is seen with Odo and yet very careful not to name him. They stay in Bree one night and leave on Gandalf's horse, Narothal (a precursor to Shadowfax). They do sneak out of Bree not taking the main road (it's implied earlier in the chapter that was for a prearranged secret meeting with Trotter).

That same day at dusk four Black Riders came by Bree again. Inquiring for news from Harry the Gatekeeper. He is down right petrified but dares not lie to them. He confessed he did not see the four hobbits they asked about but tells them about Gandalf's arrival that morning with a hobbit in tow: "A hiss came through the keyhole, and Harry started back, feeling as if something icy cold had touched him. 'You have our thanks,' said the voice. 'You will keep watch for four hobbits, if you still wish to please us. We will return'" (p. 348, The Return of the Shadow).

Harry watched all the next day afraid to miss anything for fear of the Riders. Night fell, the gate was closed, when someone came. "'Hobbits! Four hobbits! And what's more, out of the Shire from the sound of their talk,' said the gatekeeper, quietly and almost as if he was speaking to himself. He stared at them darkly for a moment, and then slowly opened the gate and let them ride through" (p. 349, The Return of the Shadow).

I think this bit of narrative adds some palpable tension to the story. It gives some much needed context to Harry's reaction when the Hobbits show up in Bree.