`` amber , this does n't happen overnight-you have to work at it if you want to be a good softball player . then the old man stopped just about at the center of the marsh . the hobbits now left the tunnel-gate and rode across the wide hollow . with one nod , she cleared her throat and managed , `` apology accepted . she pulled on her helmet and stepped out of the truck before he could answer . `` they found six shell cases , '' he said . 