When the conductor stretches out his hand to help Valli get on the bus, she acts like a mature lady and says that she can get on by herself. She also says that she doesnot need help. The conductor is a cheerful person and fond of joking. So, he calls Valli 'madam'.

Valli loved to watch the bus passing through her street every hour. The sight of the bus filled with new passengers gave her an unending joy. She wished to ride on that bus. The wish became an overwhelming desire due to her growing fascination for the bus ride.

Valli’s favourite pastime was to stand in the front doorway of her house and watch the happenings on the street. It was so because she had no playmates of her own age around there. Moreover, the street outside was full of hustle and bustle and offered her new experiences.

Valli was planning her trip. She thought that she would be back home by about two forty-five if she could take the one-o’clock afternoon bus that reaches the town at one forty-five.