She was ashamed and confused.

Other girls were constantly doing this kind of thing--other girls in business; but it seemed to put her on the level of a servant.

And why had she consented?
The man could never be anything to her; he was too old, too hard-featured, too grave.
Well, on that very account there would be no harm in meeting him.

In truth, she had not felt the courage to refuse; in a manner he had overawed her.
And perhaps she would not keep the engagement.

Nothing compelled her.
She had not told him her name, nor the house where she was employed.
There was a week to think it over.
All days and times were the same to him--he said.