When Gandalf told Frodo those things I do believe that he meant them. He is a true character, and even if he doesn't trust Gollum he still honors his life. He knows that the ring put him through a lot.
Also, if Gandalf had been with them he probably would've done the same thing. I can see how he would be a little upset when hearing that Frodo and Sam had taken up with Gollum, but I am sure that if Gandalf was faced with Gollum he too would've had pity on him. After all, he could've killed Saruman, but he chose not to.
|