[Nurumaiel]

Bandy bounced up and down on the bed. "This bed is better than the one at home, Mummy!" he screamed with delight.

"Now, Bandy," said Dinodas, hiding a smile. "You know you're not supposed to bounce on beds."

"But that's only at home," said Bandy.

"Well, from now on, it's everywhere," said Robin firmly, tucking her daughter into bed. "Go to sleep now."

Soon the three children were all fast asleep. Robin took her husband's hand. "Do you think it's all right to leave them alone?" she asked. "I want to go downstairs and sit for awhile, just like we used to do in old times."

"They'll be fine."

"I can watch them," someone said from the door.

Both Robin and Dinodas whirled around and saw a hobbit girl standing at the door, her large brown eyes full of hope and her curls falling in wild tangles down her back.

"I love children," said the girl wistfully. "I used to have a twin but he's gone now. My parents died so we got split up."

"Oh, I'm sorry," said Robin, stepping forward. "I would love for you to watch the children, but wouldn't whoever is watching after you get worried when you're missing."

"Rie's abandoned me for some man," said the girl furiously, and Robin and Dinodas exchanged a look.

"I'm sure she hasn't abandoned you for good, darling," said Robin.

"Do you know Rie?"

"No, to tell the truth, I do not."

"Then don't talk like you do. Can I watch the children?"

"Of course," said Robin. "We'll find Rie soon enough for you. What does she look like?"

"She has red hair," said the girl after a pause. "But that's all I know."

Robin and Dinodas went to the common room, hand in hand. As they stepped in, Robin whispered, "Don't forget to look for a woman with red hair."