How curious. Late last night, just before supper-time, there was a knock at the door. Who in the name of Bullroarer would be visiting so late? It was a young hobbit, with a large rucksack on his back, weary from travel. He courteously named himself as Ottho Hobbs of Staddle, beyond Bree to the far east! What did he want from me, in the Shire, to have travelled so far from home? After making him comfortable in the living room with some tea and supper, he explained that he had been recommended to me by some distant relative of mine - one whose name I barely remember.
Ottho told me that he wished to learn. Learn what, exactly? He seemed to be interested in the history of the Shire, and that of our people beyond the bounds. Rather tactlessly, I recommended that he visit my library to view some of my books on such subjects. Embarrassed, perhaps, he admitted that he did not know his letters. How awful! A young hobbit, so curious and eager to learn, without the means to do so. In the past I have taught tweens their letters. Bordo, Beryl , Biffo and Cynthia were all taught at a younger age. Villagers and some from elsewhere, have come asking for lessons. It is sometimes a difficult task, but it is incredibly rewarding for the student - and myself also. Young Ottho travelled so far for an opportunity to learn - to broaden his own opportunities in life; it is indeed admirable. I had hoped that he might be able to write his own name, but alas it seems that the need never presented itself before. To learn one's own name, in my view, is the perfect place to start. If he continues repeating the words I have set him, then soon enough he will be on his way to literacy.
After the lesson, we spoke of ourselves. Ottho rightly pointed out that if we were to spend such time together, then we ought to know one another better. He spoke of his family roots in Staddle, the home of the Bree-hobbits. It was an interesting tale, indeed. As he is familiar with Staddle, perhaps that will be a prudent place to begin our history lesson. It was, after all, the home of Marcho and Blanco. For the duration of his stay at Barleywick, I have offered him one of the guestrooms at Boffin's Burrow. This is, he says, his first time in the Shire. I trust that he will feel welcome!
