The market journey

An original fiction passage set in the nineteenth century.

At daybreak, Ruth loaded a handcart with fresh loaves and set off for the weekly market. Halfway to town, the iron rim slipped from one of the wheels, forcing her to drag the cart to a blacksmith. By the time the wheel was repaired, the town clock had struck noon and the last customers were leaving the market square. Ruth turned towards the bakery with all the loaves still on the cart.

Ruth does not sell any of the bread. Give two reasons for this outcome.