Final answer:
Bernice responds to social ridicule by quickly and efficiently packing her belongings and preparing to leave in a new traveling suit, indicating a significant moment of empowerment and character development. This also underlines the themes of social expectations and personal rebellion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage describes a transformative and emotionally intense moment for the character Bernice. Following a negative social experience, Bernice decides to take drastic action. She prepares to leave by quickly packing a suitcase and a trunk, changing into a new traveling suit, and doing this all with a sense of determined efficiency. The act is clearly a bold response to the earlier exchange with Marjorie and others, where her new haircut received a cold and mocking reception, leading to Bernice's loss of social standing.
This situation illustrates a climax in the storyline, showcasing Bernice's empowerment and decision to change her circumstances in response to the social ridicule she experienced. Her actions indicate a break from her previous hesitation and submission to peer pressure, thus marking significant character development. It also highlights the theme of social expectations and personal rebellion against them.