But she was becoming a disturbing influence in my life--that was it, a disturbing influence--and I must not permit myself to be disturbed.
So now, as I saw the disturbing influence crossing the road in my direction, my first thought was to retreat to the bank.

But it was too late to retreat; she had seen me, and she bowed pleasantly as she approached.
"Good afternoon," she said.
I bowed and admitted that the afternoon was a good one, conscious as I did so that Sim Eldredge had followed her to the door of his store and was regarding us with marked interest.
She exhibited the package.

"I am acting as my own errand boy, you see," she said, smiling.

"It was such a beautiful day that I refused to send any one for this, or even to ride.

I did not realize that a few yards of muslin would make such a bundle.