Page:The Great Secret.djvu/169

Rh "What a great number of children there are playing in the gardens and courts," said Adela.

"Yes; we educate the children, who, like this little one, leave earth soon," answered Hesperia. "They live with us, and acquire our knowledge, until they have grown up and learn their own sphere of work. That is one of our employments in this land of peace."

They had been walking slowly along as they were speaking, pausing often, and looking around them on the fair prospect. They were by no means alone during this time, for on every terrace and street were crowds of forms, grown-up people of both sexes, surrounded by children, all beautiful, and costumed in the same light and Greek-like attire. The groups, as they passed, looked upon them kindly, but exhibited no curiosity.

"There is my home, and my husband waiting to receive us," said Hesperia, a glad light beaming in her eyes, as they drew near to the open gate of a palace garden, where stood several figures, one of whom advanced to meet them.

"Hesperia!"

"Imenus!"

They called each other by name,looked into each other's eyes and smiled fondly; then he turned to the three visitors and said,—

"Welcome, my friends."