She had done with civilization until she came back; it could not help her when she left the railroad.

She must live and struggle with savage Nature as the prospectors and half-breeds did.

But this was not all; she had, perhaps, cut herself off from other things than the comfort and security that civilization offered.
Mabel Farnam's warning was, no doubt, justified.

It was possible that the school managers would dismiss her and she would be unable to get another scholastic post.

She might have to give up her occupation and although she disliked business earn a frugal living as a clerk.