They made Frodo have another
drink, and then begin his song again, while many of them joined in; for the tune was well
known, and they were quick at picking up words. It was now Frodo's turn to feel pleased
with himself. He capered about on the table; and when he came a second time to the cow
jumped over the Moon, he leaped in the air. Much too vigorously; for he came down, bang,
into a tray full of mugs, and slipped, and rolled off the table with a crash, clatter, and
bump! The audience all opened their mouths wide for laughter, and stopped short in gapping
silence; for the singer disappeared. He simply vanished, as if he had gone slap through
the floor without leaving a hole!
The local hobbits stared in amazement, and then sprang to their feet and shouted for
Barliman. All the company drew away from Pippin and Sam, who found themselves left alone
in a corner, and eyed darkly and doubtfully from a distance. It was plain that many people
regarded them now as the companions of a travelling magician of unknown powers and
purpose. But there was one swarthy Breelander, who stood looking at them with a knowing
and half-mocking expression that made them feel very uncomfortable. Presently he slipped
out of the door, followed by the squint-eyed southerner: the two had been whispering
together a good deal during the evening. Harry the gatekeeper also went out just behind
them.
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