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when he discovered her one evening, when he came to see her, sitting talking to Prince Fluvius, he was in a rage. He took her home at once, and was anxious to marry her to the fire Prince out of hand. But she grew so thin that the doctors said they feared if she were much excited she would go out altogether. It’s a great pity she should be so silly.”

“Is she pretty ?” asked Jack.

“Pretty? Pretty’s no word for her. She is lovely—beautiful! She is much the loveliest woman in Fireland, and she’s wonderfully clever as well.”

“Little man,” said Jack, coaxingly, “take me with you, and show me your home. I would never tell any one, and it’s so dull here. Do let me go with you.”

“I don’t see how it can be done,” answered the little man. “Besides, you'd be frightened.”

“I wouldn’t, I wouldn’t, indeed,” said Jack. “Only try me, and see.”

“Wait a minute, then;” and the little red figure disappeared into the brightest part of the fire. In a few seconds he appeared again, carrying a little red cap, and suit, and boots.