Almost at the same time a slender column of smoke was seen rising to the east of the light, and apparently at some distance inland.

As the lamp in the light-house shed forth its cheerful gleam at sunset the column of smoke changed to a deep red, as though it were a pillar of fire.

While they were wondering what it could be, a pilot came on board, and in answer to their questions told them that it was the light from the Wakulla volcano.

He said that no living soul had ever been nearer than five miles to it, on account of the horrible and impenetrable swamps surrounding it.
Hearing this, Uncle Christopher declared that, before leaving that country, he meant to go in there and see how nigh he could get to it, and Mark said he would go with him.
As the breeze and tide were both in their favor, it was decided to run up to St.Mark's that night.

When, about nine o'clock, this point was reached, it was suggested that all hands should take to the boats, and tow the schooner the rest of the way up to Wakulla that same night, so as to surprise the folks in the morning.