Well, if I'm angry, it's your fault! It's mine. My own, my precious.
(CONTINUED) 20.
GANDALF:
Precious? It's been called that before, but not by you.
BILBO:
So? What business is it of yours what I do with my own things? Bilbo's voice, shape and manner have suddenly changed.
GANDALF:
I think you've had that ring quite long enough.
BILBO:
You want it for yourself!
Gandalf rises to his full height, his eyes flash, his shadow suddenly seems to fill the room
GANDALF:
Bilbo Baggins do not take me for some conjurer of cheap tricks! Bilbo cowers from Gandalf, disarmed by his power...a frightened Hobbit. Gandalf's expression softens.
GANDALF (CONT'D) I am not trying to rob you. I am trying to help you. Sobbing, Bilbo runs to Gandalf and hugs him.
GANDALF (CONT'D) All you long years we've been friends...trust me as you once did. Let it go!
BILBO:
You're right, Gandalf...the ring must go to Frodo.
Bilbo lifts his knapsack and heads for the front door.
BILBO (CONT'D) It's late, the road is long... yes, it is time.
GANDALF:
Bilbo?
BILBO:
Hmmm?
(CONTINUED) 21.
CONTINUED:
(2)
GANDALF:
The ring is still in your pocket.
Bilbo hesitates...reaches into his pocket.
BILBO:
Oh, yes.
CLOSE ON:
Bilbo pulls out the ring...he stares at it in his palm. With all his will power, Bilbo allows the ring to slowly slide off his palm and drop to the floor. CLOSE ON: The tiny ring lands with a heavy thud on the wooden floor.
EXT. BAG END -- NIGHT
ANGLE ON:
Bilbo staggering out of Bag end...he braces himself in the night air, Pale and Trembling, as if his loss of the ring has weakened him. Gandalf steps up behind.
BILBO:
I've thought up and ending for my book..."And he lived happily ever after to the end of his days."