Susie and Bonnie in the Hootchy-Kootchy Show

"We can't go out there," said Susie, in a horrified tone of voice.

"But, darlings, you promised."

"Did we?" Susie couldn't remember exactly what had happened in the trailer after they'd put on the hootchy-kootchy costumes. "But isn't there something else we could do for you? Sweep the stalls? Man the hot dog booth?"

"I'm afraid not." Mr. Trapp shook his head gravely. "There's nothing for it. The two of you have to perform in the Special Exotic Hootchy-Kootchy Show."

"But I don't even know how to dance!"

"All pretty girls know how to dance."

"But the Mayor's out there," said Bonnie, who'd just peeked out through the curtains. A long stage like a catwalk ran down the middle of a tent, which had been decorated like an Oriental harem, with cushions and throw rugs and hookah pipes. It was full of sophisticated men and women, lounging around and making conversation while they waited for the show to begin. She knew they couldn't all be from Pinkwhistle. Did people really come all the way from New York City just for the Hootchy-Kootchy Show? "I can't dance in front of the Mayor."

"Well, I can't make you," said Mr. Trapp. "Though it disappoints me terribly to see two young ladies break a promise. Very well. You can leave."

"Great!"

"Of course, I'll need the costumes back before you can go home."

"Er," said Susie. "I'm not sure what happened to our underwear, though."

"Not my problem," said Trapp.