Hmmm, I'm unable to reproduce the problem with the glasses, too. I suspect I must have reloaded my save at some point, but forgot I didn't have glasses then. I apologize.
Ah, that all makes sense. Thank you for such a thorough reply! I'm excited for more updates :)
I've befriended the kobolds, and have been avoiding the bandits so far. I had no idea at all that Mr. White was already in the game! Where did I miss the hint on how to get him to appear? Do the insane kobolds count toward the 50?