Bilbo's departure

Can Bilbo divide from the ring?

Gandalf:

(has arrived before him) I suppose you think that was terribly clever.

Bilbo:

Come on, Gandalf! Did you see their faces?

Gandalf:

There are many magic rings in this world, Bilbo Baggins, and none of them should be used lightly!

Bilbo:

It was just a bit of fun. Oh, you're probably right, as usual. (gathers some things to take with him) You will keep an eye on Frodo, won't you?

Gandalf:

Two eyes, as often as I can spare them.

Bilbo:

I'm leaving everything to him.

Gandalf:

What about this ring of yours? Is that staying, too?

Bilbo:

Yes,yes, it's in an envelope over there on the mantelpiece.

Gandalf:

looks on the mantel

Bilbo:

No, wait, it's here in my pocket. Isn't that... Isn't that odd, now? Yet,after all, why not? Why shouldn't I keep it?

Gandalf:

I think you should leave the ring behind. Is that so hard?

dt>Bilbo:

Well, no, and yes. Now it comes to it. I don't feel like parting with it! It's mine, I found it! It came to me!

Gandalf:

There's no need to get angry.

Bilbo:

Well, if I'm angry, it's your fault! It's mine. My own, my precious...

Gandalf:

Precious? It's been called that before, but not by you.

Bilbo:

What business is it of yours what I do with my own things?

Gandalf:

I think you've had that ring quite long enough.

Bilbo:

You want it for yourself!

Gandalf:

(a shadow draws around , revealing the power he usually keeps hidden) Bilbo Baggins! Do not take me for some conjuror of cheap tricks! I am not trying to rob you! (the shadow retreats, and he is the kindly old man again. Bilbo runs to him) I'm trying to help you. All your long years, we have been friends. Trust me now as you once did. Let it go.

Bilbo:

You're right, Gandalf. The ring must go to Frodo. It's late, and the road is long. Yes, it is time. (gathers his pack and heads out the door)

Gandalf:

(stops him on the doorstep) Bilbo, the ring is still in your pocket.

Bilbo:

Oh, yes. (takes out the ring, holds it on his palm, and with a great effort, turns his hand until the ring slips off and drops on the floor. He walks out, takes a deep breath.) I've thought of an ending for my book. 'And he lived happily ever after, to the end of his days.'

Gandalf:

And I'm sure you will, my dear friend.

Bilbo:

Goodbye, Gandalf.

Gandalf:

Goodbye, dear Bilbo.

Bilbo:

The road goes ever on and on...

Gandalf:

Until our next meeting.