The Hunt for the Ring: Concerning Gandalf, Saruman and the Shrine Summary

Though Saruman is the leader of the wizarding order, he knows in his heart that Gandalf, the Grey Wanderer, is the most powerful of their group. Not only that, but Gandalf holds stronger influence over the people of Middle Earth. Saruman fears Gandalf and takes every opportunity to speak against his counsel. Yet he himself ponders the Grey Wanderer's every word. It is in this way that the Shire comes under Saruman's scrutiny. Once he realizes that Gandalf deems the Shire worth noticing, Saruman decides to visit the land of the Halflings himself. Though he finds nothing there of interest during his visits, he keeps a close watch on the boarders. It was through this vigilance that Saruman eventually learns of Gollum and...