To The End

(Image by J. R. R. Tolkien - found here)

[Sam:] “I don’t know how to say it, but after last night I feel different. I seem to see ahead, in a kind of way. I know we are going to take a very long road, into darkness; but I know I can’t turn back. It isn’t to see Elves now, nor dragons, nor mountains, that I want—I don’t rightly know what I want: but I have something to do before the end, and it lies ahead, not in the Shire. I must see it through, sir, if you understand me.”

[Frodo:] “I don’t altogether. But I understand that Gandalf chose me a good companion. I am content. We will go together.”

...

“But it does not seem that I can trust anyone,” said Frodo.

Sam looked at him unhappily. “It all depends on what you want,” put in Merry. “You can trust us to stick to you through thick and thin—to the bitter end. And you can trust us to keep any secret of yours—closer than you keep it yourself. But you cannot trust us to let you face trouble alone, and go off without a word. We are your friends, Frodo.... We are horribly afraid—but we are coming with you; or following you like hounds.”

...

[Frodo:] “I must go at once. It’s the only way.”

“Of course it is,” answered Sam. “But not alone. I’m coming too, or neither of us isn’t going....”

Frodo actually laughed. A sudden warmth and gladness touched his heart....

“So all my plan is spoilt!” said Frodo. “It is no good trying to escape you. But I’m glad, Sam. I cannot tell you how glad. Come along! It is plain that we were meant to go together. We will go, and may the others find a safe road! Strider will look after them. I don’t suppose we shall see them again.”

“Yet we may, Mr. Frodo. We may,” said Sam....

Then shouldering their burdens, they set off, seeking a path...down into the Land of Shadow.

~J. R. R. Tolkien (from The Fellowship of the Ring)