The narrator introduces us to the island of Isoyi, which is home to many different types of plants, animals, and even a hermit crab. The narrator tells us that he met his aunt and uncle in the forest, and that they are staying with him. He invites them to join him on a tour of the island. He tells them that the island has a lot of interesting things to see, including a ton of hermit crabs. He says that he's going to dig up some of the earth to see what he can find. He's excited to show them around, because he thinks there's a lot to see. He thinks he'll be able to find a lot, too, since he thinks he has an expert in lead-ing earth. He shows them a piece of glass, which he thinks is a new variety of mineral. He borrows it, and it turns out to be a present from his aunt.