June 2, 2003

Re: More Arwen & Undying Lands Talk
Jimeous

Covered in Letter 246 and its' sidenotes.

Frodo could go to the West only because Arwen pleaded to the Valar through Gandalf [an emissary to the Valar, and also was on the ship that sailed with Frodo], she could have also asked through Galadriel in pledge to them. Arwen uses "her choice" of mortality as an "equity of exchange" as a bargaining tool.

In letter 154, we find that Sam is "adumbrated by Frodo", that is, having close ties and as part of both thier healing.

Bilbo we know has close ties with Elrond, and thereby is adumbrated through him.

Sam being the last Ringbearer didn't automate all Ringbearers could go to the West.

Arwen is the most important Elf for Frodo and Sam, without her intercession, its unlikely he could sail. Because if they made exceptions to all Ringbearers then the Nazgul would have a case.

Gimli and Legolas do not end thier adventures in LoTR, thier tie of friendship gets tighter, its likely that Gimli paid some great part in the Elves. His likely commissioner would be Galadriel whom would plead for his acceptance.

These are exceptions, they still follow strict rules and need to have authorised acceptance.

Tolkien's doesn't change the rules he had in place, he merely allows those whom live by them to practice mercy.

Regarding Aragorn and Arwen's children

Their kin would not have the Half-Elvin choice, because Arwen was considered to be a mortal at the time of thier birth.