EXERPT FROM REBECCA OF SUNNYBROOK FARM: the old stagecoach was rumbling along the dusty road that runs from Maplewood to Riverboro. The day was as warm as midsummer, though it was only the middle of the May, and Mr. Jeremiah Cobb was favoring the horses as much as possible, yet never losing sight of the fact that he carried the mail. The hills were many, and the reins lay loosely in his hands as he lolled back in his seat and extended one foot over the dashboard. His brimmed hat of worn felt was well pulled over his eyes. Based on this excerpt what does the information in the excerpt help the reader understand?