Staddle'd

While Townsfolk, and their apparent inability to deal with threats on their own has become an increasing source of frustration for me, the Hobbits of Staddle take this concept to new heights.

When I arrived and saw the rustic setting and the shear amount of farmfolk I was relieved. Surely these people know self-reliance. I was shocked to discover the the "town effect" as I've come to call it not only extended to these Hobbits, but they'd taken it further then I'd ever seen.

Straddle, like Combe and Archet had problems with beast populations as well as the Blackbold's. Rumors tell of a secret Blackbold hideout in this area which I hope will afford the opportunity to rid us of this blight for good. As always, I volunteered to assist with various dangerous issues to help secure the area. However, it became increasingly obvious that these folk were capable of, and more than willing to, take advantage of anyone who lends a hand.

As a Warden who's marshal skills grow daily I could easily deal with the physical threats facing the town and farms. But the errands, by my spear the errands were ridiculous! Farm folk of all people, apparently incapable of bringing things to market, sharing information with neighbors or even delivering love letters! Love letters! I half wondered if I should deliver that piece of scented paper via the tip of my javelin.

I begin to fear that an epidemic sweeps through Bree-land. Many fear the Evil Sauron and what he might have in store for all of us. But I tell you, the greater threats are sloth and complacency. How can a anyone hope to survive an evil onslaught if they cannot lift themselves from their rocking chairs to tend to their own crops or mail a letter?

I still have much to do here, not the least of which is to locate this rumored Blackwold hideout. However, my happiest day in a long time will come when I can no longer see any of these Staddle folk without looking over my shoulder. For the life of me I cannot understand why my father held Hobbits in such high regard.