In this chapter, Bilbo Baggins and the group of dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield continue their journey into the wilderness. As they travel, they become increasingly aware of the dangers that lie ahead. The party is hungry and fatigued after days of travel, and they decide to stop to rest and have a meal. However, their respite is interrupted by the sudden appearance of trolls.

The trolls, three in number—Tom, Bert, and William—are huge, brutish creatures with a taste for human flesh. They capture the dwarves one by one while they are unprepared and unguarded. Bilbo, feeling the need to prove his worth as a burglar, attempts to pickpocket one of the trolls in order to steal some food. Unfortunately, he is caught and becomes the first victim of the trolls.

As the trolls argue over how to cook their captives, Bilbo and the dwarves find themselves in a precarious situation. The trolls’ bickering provides a brief distraction, allowing Bilbo to think of a plan. During this critical moment, Gandalf, the wise wizard who accompanies the group, intervenes. He uses his magical abilities to create a diversion that confuses the trolls. He casts a shadow and mimics their voices, leading them to argue among themselves about the other trolls they believe are coming to help. This deception buys the group precious time.

While the trolls are distracted, Gandalf cleverly manages to turn the trolls against one another, causing them to lose their focus and eventually leading to their downfall. As dawn approaches, the sunlight begins to shine upon them, a significant weakness for these creatures of darkness. In the early morning light, the trolls are turned to stone, effectively ending the threat they posed to Bilbo and the dwarves.

With the trolls defeated, Gandalf and the dwarves explore the trolls’ camp, where they find a treasure trove of food, weapons, and gold. They take what they need to replenish their supplies for the journey ahead. This encounter not only highlights Bilbo’s initial failure and the need for cleverness but also reinforces Gandalf's role as a protector and mentor to the group. The chapter concludes with Bilbo feeling a sense of accomplishment despite his earlier capture, having survived a perilous encounter and learned valuable lessons about bravery, teamwork, and the importance of quick thinking under pressure. It sets the stage for Bilbo's growing confidence as he continues his unexpected adventure.