Here we see the interplay of providence and free will illustrated clearly. Pity and mercy, both accentuated by Tolkien through the use of uppercase letters, are moral choices made freely by Bilbo. The positive consequence of his virtuous choice is to be “well rewarded” by the protection such virtue provides from the evil power of the Ring. The fact that the virtuous act is rewarded suggests the presence of one who rewards the virtuous with protection from evil.
