On Thorin's map, he is able to read "moon runes" (only visible in the light of the moon in the proper phase) that describe how to find the secret entrance on the Lonely Mountain: "Stand by the grey stone when the thrush knocks, . . . and the setting sun with the last light of Durin's Day will shine upon the key-hole." Though they are puzzled by this message, the company is in high spirits when it at last leaves Rivendell, well-rested and prepared for the road ahead. Bilbo and company advance upon the Misty Mountains. Thanks to the advice of Elrond and Gandalf, they are able to find a good pass over the mountain range among the many dead-end trails and drop offs. Still, the climb is long and treacherous. Suddenly, a violent thunderstorm breaks upon them, forcing them to find shelter. Luckily, two of the dwarves (Fili and Kili) are able to find a cave in the side of the mountain, and they bring in the ponies and make camp for the night. In the middle of the night, Bilbo awakes with a start--just in time to see the ponies being dragged into an enormous crack that has opened in the cave wall. He yells, and out of the crack jump dozens of goblins, who tie up and carry off each member of the company--except for Gandalf, who was forewarned by Bilbo's yell.
The goblins carry the dwarves and the hobbit down into the mountain until they reach the huge chamber where the Great Goblin sits. He demands to know what the travelers are doing in his mountain. Thorin tries to explain about the storm, but one of the goblins brings forth the sword that Thorin had taken from the trolls and was carrying when captured. This sword, Orcrist, the Goblin-cleaver, is well-known to the goblins. They go into a rage and the Great Goblin lunges at Thorin to eat him. Suddenly, however, the torches lighting the cavern go out and the great fire in the middle throws its sparks onto each of the goblins. In the darkness and confusion, a great sword flashes and strikes down the Great Goblin.