Strider had been waiting at the Prancing Pony for two days.
Gandalf had not yet arrived.
It was not like the wizard to be late, and the ranger was concerned for his safety.
He watched as four hobbits walked into the room.
Three of them were child-like in their innocence as they sang, danced and drank with the crowd.
The last one however was quiet and apprehensive.
His wide blue eyes betrayed a fear that he could not hide.
Strider knew without a doubt that he was the Ring Bearer.
That fear could only be brought on by one thing; the hobbit must have already had his first encounter with the Ringwraiths.
They could no longer wait for Gandalf.