In a thick, dense forest there lived industrious gnomes. Even during winter they didn't sit idle, but helped the forest creatures find food. They also cleared the tree crowns of snow so that the bright sun could reach into every corner of the thicket.
The gnomes loved Winter very much, but by the end of February they began to long for warm days.
One day they decided to set out in search of Spring.
The gnomes run along a path, and Autumn comes towards them.
And she asks:
Where are you hurrying off to like that?
We're looking for Spring, we're rushing to her!
Autumn wanted to enchant the gnomes and rule the forest instead of Spring. She began showing them trees painted in gold. The little forest folk didn't like grey rainy days. They weren't tempted by the gold.
They ran on further. Winter comes towards them.
Where are you running off to so fast, little gnomes?
We're searching for Spring, we're hurrying to her!
Winter wanted to stay in the forest longer. She began praising her own beauty, silvering the trees and bushes. But the gnomes weren't interested anymore: everything had been in snow for ages. Winter grew furious and began to sweep the path, bringing frost. The little folk got cold and, to warm themselves, ran on further.
They found themselves in a meadow. They look, and there Spring is working with all her might! Little birds are chirping, streams are flowing, the first snowdrops appear on the bare patches, emerald grass pushes through.
How the gnomes loved this! Spring rejoiced and gave her guests bright rays of sunshine. The little forest folk began to shine and help their friend with her work.
And Spring grows warmer and more beautiful: she knows that soon Summer will come to visit.
