The Nymphs
The graceful beings called the Nymphs were the presiding deities of the woods, grottoes, streams, meadows, &c.
These divinities were supposed to be beautiful maidens of fairy-like form, and robed in more or less shadowy garments. They were held in the greatest veneration, though, being minor divinities, they had no temples dedicated to them, but were worshipped in caves or grottoes, with libations of milk, honey, oil, &c.
They may be divided into three distinct classes, viz., water, mountain, and tree or wood nymphs.