It was almost like hypnotism.

And yet, I don't altogether wonder.

He has an odd sort of fascination about him.

Even when he is discussing his snakes." "His snakes ?" "He has three rooms in his house fitted up as a reptile zoo.
He collects them from everywhere.

He says--and he seems to believe it--that they won't hurt him and that he can handle them as safely as if they were kittens.