Fred was surprised, and a little frightened.
“Why,” he stammered, “I only learned it to-day.”
“Not from any one in Hameln?”
“No, I don’t suppose it was. He was on the other side of the mountain.”
The Director shook his head sagaciously.
“It is not allowed in Hameln,” he repeated; “I wouldn’t whistle it again if I were you.”
“But why not?” demanded Fred. “Why can’t a man whistle what he likes?”
“For the same reason,” gravely, “that it is forbidden to play music of any kind in the Bungenstrasse.”
Fred stared.
“What is the Bungenstrasse?” he asked; “and why may not one play in it?”