Hobbit2 - Chapter 04 - Over Hill and Under Hill

[Galadriel55]

Originally Posted by Tuor in Gondolin

And of course, even though Tolkien didn't have his later Ring conception yet, it is a crucial chapter not only for leading to the Ring being found, but the beginning of Bilbo's growth and the correctness of Gandalf's selecting him over the dwarves objections.

Indeed! This is the first time Bilbo shows some courage, common sense, and, well, independance. This time he uses it for his own life's sake; next time he'll save the whole company.