First startup attempt, Melted wire....Help!

...is the power wire running to the starter solenoid (on the starter) supposed to show power anytime the accessory wire from the battery is connected to the firewall solenoid? My thinking is that the solenoid power wire should be lit up only when the ignition is turned to start, which bridges power to the starter solenoid. Is that incorrect? Once again, I can ground my test light to the negative side of the battery and probe for power with no problem. The second I touch the negative battery cable to the battery...Poof! another fuse blows.