Book 4, Chapter 4 Summary

Gollum leads the hobbits through Ithilien, a land that is ruled by Sauron. However, it is still green and lively and, thanks to the trees that line the road, the travelers are able to rest comfortably off to the side of the road.

Gollum slinks off and returns with a pair of rabbits and Sam, eager for a meal of something other than lembas, Sam cooks both of them into stew, though Gollum cannot stand cooked meat. Eager for some extra flavor, Sam asks him to bring some herbs, but Gollum refuses and slinks off to find his own food. With Gollum gone, the hobbits finish their meal and Sam leaves to rinse out his pans. However, as looks back at their campsite, he sees that his fire is giving off smoke and, as he rushes back and puts his fire...