"I think, Peter," she said, "you'll never learn the ropes.

Follow me." Not literally, but metaphorically, he followed her.

She led him to a big confectioner's with two doors and several windows, in each of which was a big notice of the new law forbidding teas or the purchase of chocolates.
Inside, she walked up to a girl who was standing by a counter, and who greeted her with a smile.

"It is cold outside," she said.

"May I have a warm by the fire ?" "Certainly, mademoiselle," said the girl.