[amyrlis]

Could what Aragorn knew of the Ring "taking" Boromir have also influenced his decision? In his dying words, Boromir confessed to Aragorn his madness and actions to take the ring from Frodo. Could Aragorn have feared (as Frodo did) that the same may happen one by one to each of the Fellowship and that Frodo would be in as much danger from his campanions as from the Dark Lord himself? He may have thought it safer to allow Frodo & Sam to continue the journey without the others, including himself. Or, by knowing of Boromir's actions, Aragorn knows why Frodo has abandoned the Fellowship. He knows that Frodo will no longer feel safe around him or the others.

Also, (this is far fetched, but I'm trying to come up with reasons for his decision) there is the promise Aragorn makes to Boromir that the White City will not fall. Might this promise have swayed his decision and spurred him toward Minas Tirith? Perhaps he thought they could quickly rescue the hobbits then head south with speed. Aragorn had a duty to the quest, but as the heir to the throne of Gondor, he also has a duty to protect his kingdom.

Anyway, just some random thoughts from me! I do agree with the statements that Merry & Pippin being delivered to Saruman would have meant certain disaster for Sam & Frodo and whoever might have been with them.