How many Istari came to Middle-earth?

[The Saucepan Man]

In his Letters, Tolkien never questions the number of five when he gives it, but in his Last Writings, he brought it all together by stating both points we have been working on: "Saruman in his wrath mentioning five [Istari] was letting out a piece of private information" (ibid.).

Thanks Sharkû. That seems to settle it. [img]smilies/smile.gif[/img]

I find the use of the word "chiefs" curious nonetheless. Perhaps JRRT had it in mind that other lesser Maia accompanied the Istari on their mission, but never got round to developing the idea. Or perhaps I am just placing too much importance on the word. [img]smilies/rolleyes.gif[/img] [img]smilies/wink.gif[/img]