Nature Myths and Stories. 55

green grass and the trees. They need your care.”

Gladly each maiden changed her dress and set
out at once on her journey. Often they could not
all work upon the grass and the buds.

Some of them ran off to play with the stones in
the brook. The best ones went down to feed the
roots and worms, and worked out of sight.

When their tasks were finished they always
hurried back to their father, the king.

They went so noiselessly and swiftly that for a
long time their way of travelling was a mystery.

In the fall, the king called the bravest swan
maidens to him. He told them they must go away
for.a long time.

The swan maidens wrapped themselves in white,
feathery blankets and came softly down to the
shivering flowers.

Gently they placed a white spread on the earth
and left no small seed uncovered.

At last, when the king smiled and their work was
done, they stole away so softly and happily that no
one missed them.