"It would only be a very little way out of the path," she murmured, "and it seems such a pity to pass them by."
Her mother was silent as she walked steadily forward, but Iddo lagged behind.
Only a yard or two from her path were flowers such as she had never seen or dreamt of. Their blossoms were sprinkled in rich profusion over the grass; blossoms of deep purple and red, while in the distance she caught sight of others of bright blue, which attracted her still more. Iddo hesitated a moment. There would be time to run and pick a few before her mother had turned the next corner. The temptation was strong, and suddenly the girl gave way to it. Leaving her path she ran into the green glade, and stooping down picked as many flowers as her hands could hold. Then sitting down in the grass she began to decorate herself with them, placing some in her waistband, and other blossoms in her hair.
"How pretty," sighed a voice by her side.
Iddo looked round quickly, and saw a dainty little lady standing beside her, dressed in very fine clothing.
The girl was startled, and suddenly remembered that she had wandered away from her right path; but the little creature in front of her did not look alarming, so though Iddo rose from the ground she lingered by her side. Besides, the compliment that had been paid to her was not lost upon the girl.
"These flowers are lovely," she murmured.
"But never so lovely as when they deck a pretty maiden," answered her companion, "it is a pity that the people of Achshaph cannot see you," she added.
"Are there many people in this land?" asked Iddo.
"Yes, very many, and they are happy from morning to night. But would you like to see yourself? If you come a few steps with me I will show you a lovely picture."