[…] the rain struck on her head as she bent supply to the movements of the pony, while it scrambled up the bank to the sheltering trees. For a couple of miles the path ran through woods alive with the varied voices of the rain, […]

Considering that the surrounding text mentions imported fashions from other parts of Europe (France, Italy), it is possible that Hungerland should mean Hungary and the reference would be to a special kind of ribbon produced there.

Working after school hours part of 'service'? Your head lah.

The inclination to hatfish makes sense, given how sensitive men can be about their hair.