An earlier form of the conversation between
Faramir and his father in Minas Tirith, after Faramir returns from Ithilien and
tells of his meeting with Frodo. Tolkien had later noted "The early conversation of Faramir and his father and motives must be
altered. Denethor must be harsh."
[Faramir] 'Do you wish then that our places had been exchanged?'
'Yes, I wish that indeed,' said Denethor. 'Or no.' And then he shook his
head, and rising swiftly he laid his hand upon his son's bowed head. 'Do not
judge me harshly, my son,' he said quietly, 'or believe me more harsh than I am.
I knew your brother well also. Love is not blind. I could wish that Boromir had
been at Henneth Annûn when this thing came there, only if I were sure of one
thing.'
'Sure of what, my father?'
'That he was as strong in heart and selfless as you, my son. That taking this
thing he would have brought it here and surrendered it, and not fallen swiftly
under its thraldom.'
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