hisel, the file and other tools. These men cast a momentary and
sullen glance at the visitors, like convicts in the penitentiary, and
resumed their labours in silence. The party soon arrived at the door
of the main building, when the old porter entered alone, and after
remaining a few moments within, came forth and announced his readiness
to conduct our hero into the presence of the fire-wizard. Glenn
motioned him to lead on, and after following through a short hall, and
turning into a large chamber, the mysterious lord of the island was
confronted, reclining before them on a couch of furs. He appeared to
be an emaciated and decrepit old man, his long white beard extending
down to his breast; and when he motioned our hero to a seat, his hand
seemed to tremble with feebleness. Yet there was something in his eye
that indicated no ordinary spirit, and instantly impressed Glenn with
the respect that he conceived to be due to superior genius; for
notwithstanding all the miraculous things told of the fire-wizard, he
rightly conjectured the personage before him to be nothing more than a
human being, a recluse, perhaps, and, like himself, seeking in
solitude the enjoyments which (for peculiar reasons) could not be
found among mankind.

"What brings thee hither?" demanded the aged man, after a few minutes'
silence, during which his brilliant eyes were closely fixed upon the
composed features of Glenn.

"That which induced thee to seek such a solitary abode," replied our
hero.

"Have you no fears?" continued the old man.

"None!" replied Glenn, firmly.

"Give me your hand!" exclaimed the old man; "you are the only being
that ever confronted the fire-wizard without feeling terror--and for
those who know not fear there is no danger. Instead of a menial, or a
victim, I will make you my companion."

"Thank him, Mr. Glenn," whispered Joe, "and perhaps he won't hurt us."

"I am seeking amusement," said Glenn; "and as long as I am pleased, it
matters not with whom or where shall be my abode. But the moment I
desire it, I will go hence."

The fire-wizard motioned the attendant to withdraw, who instantly
obeyed, leading Joe out at the same time, the poor fellow evincing
great reluctance to be separated from Glenn.

"Before exhibiting to you the mysterious objects which have acquired
for me the name of magician," said the old man, "I will briefly give
you my history. I was, in youth, they termed an idle dreamer--ever on
the ale