Final answer:
The passages provided do not include a description of Ms. Harper reaching for her pocketbook or Mrs. Strangeworth's thoughts on Martha's behavior, so it is not possible to provide the requested descriptions without further context from a specific text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passages provided seem to come from different pieces of literature, focusing on character behavior and interpersonal relationships. Ms. Harper, Martha Carey, Mrs. Strangeworth, and other characters are featured within varied social dynamics. Unfortunately, the provided texts do not specifically describe Ms. Harper reaching for her pocketbook or Mrs. Strangeworth's thoughts about Martha's behavior, which seems to be the crux of the student's question. Therefore, without the context of a specific text that includes these descriptions, it is not possible to accurately describe Ms. Harper as she reaches for her pocketbook or explain Mrs. Strangeworth's perspective on Martha's behavior. The student may be referring to a particular story or book that should be reviewed for these details.