The Company is captured:
* The dwarves, Bilbo, and Gandalf are caught in a heavy rainstorm and seek shelter in a cave.
* They encounter three trolls: Tom, Bert, and William.
* The trolls plan to eat the dwarves and Bilbo, but Gandalf uses a trick to delay them until sunrise.
Bilbo's cleverness:
* Gandalf's plan involves making the trolls argue about how to cook their captives.
* While the trolls are distracted, Bilbo sneaks out and uses his "burglar's tools" to steal their treasure.
* He stumbles upon a hidden, secret door behind a waterfall, escaping the cave before sunrise.
The trolls are turned to stone:
* The trolls are finally forced to retreat into the sunlight, but they are turned to stone due to their long exposure to the sun.
* Gandalf uses his staff to break the spell on the trolls.
The importance of the chapter:
* This chapter marks the first major turning point in the story. It establishes Bilbo's resourcefulness and courage, and it also foreshadows his role as a "burglar" who can use his skills to overcome obstacles.
* The trolls also serve as a symbol of the dangers and challenges that the company will face on their journey.
* The chapter ends on a lighter note, with Gandalf explaining the trolls' fate. However, it leaves the reader with a sense of wonder and anticipation for what's to come.
Overall, Chapter 15 is a thrilling and suspenseful chapter that sets the stage for the rest of the adventure.