“Follow!” said the old porter, leading the way towards the house.  After passing several small buildings, Glenn found himself in a spacious area, over which were scattered various and strange implements, and divers nondescript machines.  Some half dozen men were also observed, their sleeves rolled up, and intently plying the chisel, 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.