[Faramir Jones]

Originally Posted by Zigûr

Probably a reason the relationship between the Lake-Men (and, one assumes, the Men of Dale before them) and the Elves of Mirkwood was so much stronger and more comfortable than any between the Men of Rhovanion or Gondor and the Elves of Lórien was because there was no Ring in Mirkwood and therefore such "magic" was much less common and noteworthy.

Perhaps, although I suggest that another factor was the stronger trading relationship that existed between the Lake-men and the Elves of Mirkwood. We read in The Hobbit of the Elves crewing the rafts down the Forest River to the Long Lake staying as guests in Lake-town. Also, there was a reference that relations were good between both peoples, other than squabbles over river tolls. This trading relationship, clearly advantageous for both, would have eroded the fears such Men had about such Elves. Perhaps the Men and Elves who worked on the water bonded over songs, perhaps after alcohol was consumed?