Seeing me pause, he crept close up to me, peered into my face, and then retreated, beckoning me to follow; which I did.
In a few moments the village was behind us; and with my guide in advance, I found myself in the shadow of the heights overlooking the farther side of the valley.

Here my guide paused until I came up with him; when, side by side, and without speaking, we ascended the hill.
Presently, we came to a wretched hut, barely distinguishable in the shade cast by the neighbouring trees.

Pushing aside a rude sliding door, held together with thongs, the goblin signed me to enter.
Within, it looked dark as pitch; so I gave him to understand that he must strike a light, and go in before me.

Without replying, he disappeared in the darkness; and, after groping about, I heard two sticks rubbing together, and directly saw a spark.

A native taper was then lighted, and I stooped, and entered.
It was a mere kennel.