In a moment , Proserpina lost sight of the pleasant vale of Enna , in which she had always dwelt . Another instant , and even the summit of Mount Aetna had become so blue in the distance , that she could scarcely distinguish it from the smoke that gushed out of its crater . But still the poor child screamed , and scattered her apron full of flowers along the way , and left a long cry trailing behind the chariot ; and many mothers , to whose ears it came , ran quickly to see if any mischief had befallen their children . But Mother Ceres was a great way off , and could not hear the cry . As they rode on , the stranger did his best to soothe her . `` Why should you be so frightened , my pretty child ? '' said he , trying to soften his rough voice . `` I promise not to do you any harm . What ! you have been gathering flowers ? Wait till we come to my palace , and I will give you a garden full of prettier flowers than those , all made of pearls , and diamonds , and rubies . Can you guess who I am ? They call my name Pluto ; and I am the king of diamonds and all other precious stones . Every atom of the gold and silver that lies under the earth belongs to me , to say nothing of the copper and iron , and of the coal mines , which supply me with abundance of fuel . Do you see this splendid crown upon my head ? You may have it for a plaything . O , we shall be very good friends , and you will find me more agreeable than you expect , when once we get out of this troublesome sunshine . '' `` Let me go home ! '' cried Proserpina . `` Let me go home ! ''
`` My home is better than your mother 's , '' answered King XXXXX .
Aetna Ceres Enna Pluto Proserpina atom chariot left palace plaything