Rumours at Oatbarton

So there they were, after quite a long ride, taking a small rest in the village of Oatbarton. 

"At least we can stock up a bit on food and water." Lithea said, not as much thinking of her lack of lunch as what they would eat in the coming days. Evendim lay before them, and it was better known fer its tomb robbers than for its hospitality. 

They pulled up their ponies at Bob Proudfoots place. He was known to Tolbold as being a trustworthy fellow. 

"Anything 'appen here of late, Bob? Any groups of Men or any Elves?" Tolbold asked. 

Lithea was instantly drawn to the whispering of a couple of nearby hobbits. "What's that yer say? A couple of Longshanks down near the Barrandalf?"

Bob Proudfoot nodded, and lit up his pipe. 

"No sign o' Elves. We don't usually get any o' them pass this way. But there were two men, caught by the Bounders at Dwaling. Rough sorts, right enough. It took all their Bounders and a few lads with pitchforks to round 'em up. "

Lithea and Tolbold exchanged glances. 

"Them Men were looking fer an Elf," one of the nearby gossips ventured. "An Elf dressed all in black, on a big horse is after 'em, it seems ter them."

Lithea curtsied very politely. "Thank yer kindly. You be a big help."

The Lass blushed a little and bobbed her head. She was a good gossip.

"I don't know what's going on, but sounds as if them be looking fer Estarfin ter me." Tolbold whispered under his breath.