So she finally consented to go , and they set out together , both carrying torches , although it was broad daylight and clear sunshine . The torchlight seemed to make a gloom ; so that the people whom they met , along the road , could not very distinctly see their figures ; and , indeed , if they once caught a glimpse of Hecate , with the wreath of snakes round her forehead , they generally thought it prudent to run away , without waiting for a second glance . As the pair traveled along in this woe-begone manner , a thought struck Ceres . `` There is one person , '' she exclaimed , `` who must have seen my poor child , and can doubtless tell what has become of her . Why did not I think of him before ? It is Phoebus . '' `` What , '' said Hecate , `` the young man that always sits in the sunshine ? O , pray do not think of going near him . He is a gay , light , frivolous young fellow , and will only smile in your face . And besides , there is such a glare of the sun about him , that he will quite blind my poor eyes , which I have almost wept away already . '' `` You have promised to be my companion , '' answered Ceres . `` Come , let us make haste , or the sunshine will be gone , and Phoebus along with it . '' Accordingly , they went along in quest of Phoebus , both of them sighing grievously , and Hecate , to say the truth , making a great deal worse lamentation than Ceres ; for all the pleasure she had , you know , lay in being miserable , and therefore she made the most of it . By and by , after a pretty long journey , they arrived at the sunniest spot in the whole world . There they beheld a beautiful young man , with long , curling ringlets , which seemed to be made of golden sunbeams ; his garments were like light summer clouds ; and the expression of his face was so exceedingly vivid , that Hecate held her hands before her eyes , muttering that he ought to wear a black veil . Phoebus -LRB- for this was the very person whom they were seeking -RRB- had a lyre in his hands , and was making its chords tremble with sweet music ; at the same time singing a most exquisite song , which he had recently composed . For , beside a great many other accomplishments , this young man was renowned for his admirable poetry . As Ceres and her dismal companion approached him , Phoebus smiled on them so cheerfully that Hecate 's wreath of snakes gave a spiteful hiss , and Hecate heartily wished herself back in her cave . But as for Ceres , she was too earnest in her grief either to know or care whether Phoebus smiled or frowned . `` Phoebus ! ''
exclaimed she , `` I am XXXXX great trouble , and have come to you for assistance .
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