Robert nodded at Engie, then excused himself.

[color=f9ad81]"Miss Engie, my apologies, but I have things I need to do before the stores close for the day. If you'll excuse me."[/color]

He made a short, but congenial bow of his head with his hand on his chest, then turned and headed down the street, and toward the general store.

[color=f9ad81][i](So much to do, so little time... ... Dad's gonna be pissed.)[/i][/color]

A few minutes later, he located his quarry; the unassuming general goods merchant's establishment. A random selection of housewares, dry goods, and other sundries lined shelves behind the large counter.  In establishments like this, it was customary to tell the shopkeeper what you wanted, and they got it down for you, AFTER you paid for it.

Casually, he hailed the clerk.