AS HE PASSED.

Auckland Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 224, 21 September 1935, Page 2 (Supplement)

AS HE PASSED.

(By Margaret Richardson, "Highgatc," Park Road, Te Awamutu.) His soft golden hair shone like wee sunbeams, liis eyes were as misty-blue as kiss-me-dots, his pureed little lips were ruby red. As he passed by on fleeting feet he caressed with soft dimpled hands the tight little brown buds on the trees, hedgerows and flowers, all of which burst forth with tiny green buds that broke away from their dark wraps. A small child was tenderly touching some withered plants in her sparse little garden plot as he stood there. Suddenly, as her eyes grew bright with tears, he heard her murmur: "They haven't any buds." Being a loving little chap, he stole through the rustic gateway to her side. Stooping, he touched the faded plants, which instantly showed signs of bearing flowers and foliage. Only a minute did he linger to watch the child's face transfigured from a look of sadness to one of joy before he was on his way. Whilst passing a large, magnificent house a be'autiful lady slowly descended the stairs to the gravel path below. After a few minutes' watching he crept into the spacious garden. The woman listlessly gazed round her flower beds as he flitted here and there, leaving in his wake little green buds on the bar© trees and plants. Stealing softly to her side he caressed her jewelled head with loving hands. Suddenly her cheeks were flushed, • her eyes bright, as she gazed about her, revelling in a new pleasure — the beauty of Nature. Another spirit had awakened in her heart. He crept away repaid. Continuing his wanderings he came to a thatch-roofed cottage where an old couple lived. He was tending the plants in their garden when he heard two soft voices blend sweetly together as they called: "Welcome! Spring is here!"