Good point, Helen, though I hasten to add that Gandalf is not a prophet in the true sense of that word, nor is he an angelic power in the sense that he serves as a herald for Eru, transmitting a direct message from him. He may be considered an angelic power in a way, of course, but a flawed and fallible one.
I'd also add that the average Middle-earther who did not have access to the tutelage of the very wise was left with little but his or her conscience to go on.
[ October 26, 2003: Message edited by: Mister Underhill ]
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