Since the thread's already a mile long, I'll plow in, so forgive me if I repeat
or restate what some have already said! :-)
1. The Dwarves have taken a somewhat bemused view of the hobbits as
something like younger brothers before. That was the way Thorin and co.
regarded Bilbo. I think Gimli is gaining more genuine respect for them
now that they have proven themselves to be warriors, but he still does view
Merry and Pippin as the troublemaking rascals, though in a more good-natured,
humorous way now.
2. I see Gimli and Legolas now taking the time to notice what they would
do to spruce up this great monument of human engineering and
construction. Minas Tirith may by the great capital of Numenorean pride,
but the two see places where they could improve it, and this sets up the later
part of book in which Dwarves and Elves all work together to rebuild.
It's a bit like Trading Spaces; they each have their skills and knowledge of
desing, and see where they can help out by doing a little redecorating.
3. I believe the see his chances as 50/50 at this point. The fate
of the Ringbearer is what will determine the final result. They are being
cautiously optimistic, but realize that the chances for defeat are still
there. Still, they are planning for the future anyway while realizing
that things may not turn out for the
best.
Why subtitles can be dangerous things
