The purchase took a little time, for the shopman had not enough out, and had to send to the stock-room to get some.

But, now that she was there, Huldah did not mind that.

She loved watching the people coming in and making their purchases; it was all so lively and new and interesting.

The shopkeeper, who had seen her come there with Miss Carew, and had heard about her basket-making, was nice and friendly too.

He seemed to take quite an interest in her work, and promised to get her some orders if he could, so that altogether Huldah came out of that shop feeling extremely happy, and not in the least sorry that she had had to come.
"I feel almost too happy," she was saying to herself, as she stepped out into the street, where the setting sun was flooding the place with radiance, a dazzling, rosy radiance that shone right in Huldah's eyes, and blinded her to all about her.
"It is all so lovely," she added, "it seems as if it can't be true, as if I can't be really me"-- a sudden sharp, excited barking on the part of Dick made her turn quickly.