"Hope," said their leader, the queen of the starry band.

There was to be high festival that night, in a temple dedicated to the
Muses; and it was quite a sacrifice for any of their number to leave
their happy sphere, for one so dark as that of earth.

Hope came forward at the mention of her name, holding in her hand
the half-finished garland which she had been twining for one of the
Graces.

"Wilt thou go to earth to-night, fair Hope?" asked the queen.

The star on her fair brow glittered brighter as she said unhesitatingly,
"I will."

"Your mission will be to carry garlands to every habitation which has
a light within. The others you cannot, of course, discern. Come now,
and let me clasp this strong girdle about thy waist, to which I shall
attach a cord, by which to let you down to earth."

They filled her arms with garlands, and flung some about her neck, till
she was laden and ready to go.

"Now," said their leader, "descend on this passing cloud; and while
you are gone we will sing anthems for you, to keep your heart bright and
linked to ours."

Then she fastened the cord to her golden girdle, and let her down
gently from the skies.