For Little Children—Persephone. 53

own language, “Be happy for Persephone has
come! Persephone has come!”

Demeter saw these changes and was puzzled.
“Can the earth be ungratefule Does she so
soon forget Persephoner” she cried.

It was not long however before her own face
became beautiful and happy, for she held again
her beloved child in her arms.

When Demeter found that Persephone could
stay with her only half the year, she brought out
the choicest treasures from her storehouse and
while Persephone stayed, the world was filled
with beauty and joy.

When she had gone, Demeter covered the rivers
and lakes, and spread a soft white blanket over the
Sleeping earth.

Then she, too, fell asleep and dreamed such
pleasant dreams that she did not awake until she
felt Persephone’s warm kiss on her forehead.