They were so intent upon getting somewhere.

He saw coquettish glances cast by magnificent girls.

Ah, the money it required to train with such--how well he knew! How long it had been since he had had the opportunity to do so! The clock outside registered four.

It was a little early, but he thought he would go back to the flat.
This going back to the flat was coupled with the thought that Carrie would think he was sitting around too much if he came home early.

He hoped he wouldn't have to, but the day hung heavily on his hands.