But, at that hour, the old court-yard of the post-office was thronged with people arriving and departing, meeting their friends and posting their letters.

The girl was evidently not used to crowds.

She was nervous and confused.

After advancing a few steps in the direction pointed out to her, she stopped in bewilderment, hustled by busy people, and evidently in doubt already about which way she was to turn next.
If I had followed the strict line of duty, I suppose I should have turned my steps in the direction of Mr.Keller's house.

I followed my instincts instead, and offered my services to the young lady.