Isto é coberto em Sombra do Passado (Capítulo 2 de FotR):
'But this is terrible!' cried Frodo. 'Far worse than the worst that I imagined from your hints and warnings. O Gandalf, best of friends, what am I to do? For now I am really afraid. What am I to do? What a pity that Bilbo did not stab that vile creature, when he had a chance!'
'Pity? It was Pity that stayed his hand. Pity, and Mercy: not to strike without need. And he has been well rewarded, Frodo. Be sure that he took so little hurt from the evil, and escaped in the end, because he began his ownership of the Ring so. With Pity.'
Mais cedo no mesmo capítulo, também temos Gandalf discutindo como um Anel de Poder afeta um mortal:
Yes, sooner or later – later, if he is strong or well-meaning to begin with, but neither strength nor good purpose will last – sooner or later the dark power will devour him.
Portanto, é claro:
- Smeagol começou sua própria vida no Anel com ganância e assassinato,
- Bilbo começou sua própria propriedade com pena.