. . . was just a way of describing the effects of the fear inspired by the
Nazgul. I don't distinguish between the Black Breath and the fear they
inspire. The question then becomes why the hobbits and Aragorn did not
feel such effects. I think that is first because they are exceptional
people, and second because the Nazgul focused their attention on Frodo.
As for Aragorn being exceptional, I just realized that he is really Elrond's
foster son, not raised by men at all, and in that way very different from his
ancestors. And no wonder, then, that Arwen would take notice of
him. He would, I think, remind her of her father more than anyone else
except her brothers.
On the other hand, it must have been difficult for Aragorn to get used to men
after being raised as an
Elf.
________________________________________
"‘I think he was a silly little man,' said Councillor Tompkins. ‘Worthless, in fact; no use to Society at all.'
"‘Oh, I don't know,' said Atkins, who was nobody of importance, just a schoolmaster. ‘I am not so sure: it depends on what you mean by use .'
"‘No practical or economic use,' said Tompkins. . . .
. . .
"‘It is proving very useful indeed,' said the Second Voice. ‘As a holiday, and a refreshment. It is splendid for convalescence; and not only for that, for many it is the best introduction to the Mountains. It works wonders in some cases. I am sending more and more there. They seldom have to come back.'"
