www.freeclassicebooks.com

2. The Demon of Electricity

Rob was a courageous boy, but a thrill of fear passed over him in spite of

his bravest endeavor as he gazed upon the wondrous apparition that

confronted him. For several moments he sat as if turned to stone, so

motionless was he; but his eyes were nevertheless fastened upon the

Being and devouring every detail of his appearance.

And how strange an appearance he presented!

His jacket was a wavering mass of white light, edged with braid of red

flames that shot little tongues in all directions. The buttons blazed in

golden fire. His trousers had a bluish, incandescent color, with glowing

stripes of crimson braid. His vest was gorgeous with all the colors of the

rainbow blended into a flashing, resplendent mass. In feature he was

most majestic, and his eyes held the soft but penetrating brilliance of

electric lights.

It was hard to meet the gaze of those searching eyes, but Rob did it, and

at once the splendid apparition bowed and said in a low, clear voice:

I am here."

I know that," answered the boy, trembling, "but WHY are you here?"

Because you have touched the Master Key of Electricity, and I must

obey the laws of nature that compel me to respond to your summons."

I--I didn't know I touched the Master Key," faltered the boy.

I understand that. You did it unconsciously. No one in the world has

ever done it before, for Nature has hitherto kept the secret safe locked

within her bosom."

Rob took time to wonder at this statement.

Then who are you?" he inquired, at length.

The Demon of Electricity," was the solemn answer.

Good gracious!" exclaimed Rob, "a demon!"

The Master Key