Halfred raised an eyebrow, obviously suspicious. His mouth was closed tighter than the lid on a jar of marmalade. Asphodel could tell he was contemplating the strange Hobbit.
Finally, though still suspicious, he said, "What have you to offer me, Mr. Hornblower?" Asphodel thought this was a good time to intervine.
"He wants to give us some Longbottom Leaf," she said. "You can get back what you gave to Angry Brandybuck."
Halfred sighed. Asphodel knew she had said the right thing. Besides, this Mr. Hornblower gave her a nervous feeling in her stomach, and she wanted to get rid of him as soon as possible.
"Alright," said Halfred reluctantly. "But I warn you, sir, I'll be able to tell if the leaf is poor quality, because I have a small plantation of my own."
He took the pack of Longbottom from Mr. Hornblower and observed the leaves, sniffing at them, scratching at them with the tips of his fingers.
After a long deliberation, he said, "They will do. Take a leg of mutton and a few other things, and be off with you."
Mr. Hornblower smiled graciously and bowed. After gathering his meal, he said his thanks and made off with his new bounty.
Asphodel breathed a sigh of relief. Halfred sat back down again and began eating in silence. Soon, everyone at the table had resumed eating.
<font size=1 color=339966>[ 10:36 PM January 29, 2004: Message edited by: Linnahiril Tinnufinwen ]
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