Summary

Gollum leads the hobbits through the Dead Marshes because Orcs do not use the marsh. His expertise helps them traverse the terrain in the dark, for it is dangerous to travel by day and Gollum does not like the sun. Gollum cannot eat the food the hobbits have because it tastes like ash to him; instead he is hungry for raw meat. The hobbits sleep in shifts to keep an eye on Gollum. The marshes are frightening and contain the bodies of the dead that died centuries before. As they travel closer to the Gates of Mordor, Frodo feels the Ring growing heavier and heavier. Gollum has a vocal debate with his other consciousness, Smeagol, about taking the Ring from Frodo. Sam overhears him saying how much he wants the Ring, but is scared to take it since the hobbits outnumber him. Gollum seems to...