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 in great trouble , and have come to you for assistance . Can you tell me what has become of my dear child Proserpina ? '' `` Proserpina ! Proserpina , did you call her name ? '' answered Phoebus , endeavoring to recollect ; for there was such a continual flow of pleasant ideas in his mind , that he was apt to forget what had happened no longer ago than yesterday . `` Ah , yes , I remember her now . A very lovely child , indeed . I am happy to tell you , my dear madam , that I did see the little Proserpina not many days ago . You may make yourself perfectly easy about her . She is safe , and in excellent hands . '' `` O , where is my dear child ? '' cried Ceres , clasping her hands , and flinging herself at his feet . `` Why , '' said Phoebus -- and as he spoke he kept touching his lyre so as to make a thread of music run in and out among his words -- `` as the little damsel was gathering flowers -LRB- and she has really a very exquisite taste for flowers -RRB- , she was suddenly snatched up by King Pluto , and carried off to his dominions .
I have never been in that part of the universe ; but the royal palace , I am told , is built XXXXX a very noble style of architecture , and of the most splendid and costly materials .
As after before by in like of on than with