“What’s that got to do with it? I have had enough to do with washing
up for fourteen!”
     “If you had dusted the mantelpiece you would have found this just
under the clock,” said Gandalf, handing Bilbo a note (written, of
course, on his own note-paper).
     This is what he read:
     “Thorin and Company to Burglar Bilbo greeting!
     For your hospitality our sincerest thanks, and for your offer of
professional assistance our grateful acceptance. Terms: cash on
delivery, up to and not exceeding one fourteenth of total profits (if
any); all traveling expenses guaranteed in any event; funeral expenses
to be defrayed by us or our representatives, if occasion arises and
the matter is not otherwise arranged for.
     “Thinking it unnecessary to disturb your esteemed repose, we have
proceeded in advance to make requisite preparations, and shall await
your respected person at the Green Dragon Inn, Bywater, at II a.m.
sharp. Trusting that you will be punctual.
     “We have the honour to remain
     “Yours deeply
     “Thorin & Co.”