A simple request for directions turns into an unusually lengthy and detailed response when Saul and his servant encounter a group of young women. The primary approach among commentators is that this extended conversation stems from the women's desire to delay Saul simply to gaze upon his physical beauty [רש״י, מצודת דוד, רד״ק]. However, this delay is also understood as a profound act of divine providence. God orchestrated this exact timing so that Saul would meet Samuel at the precise moment God had promised the prophet that a man would be sent to Him [רד״ק]. On a deeper, symbolic level, the women subtly hint to Saul that just as he is eager for the encounter, Samuel is joyfully waiting for him, and their meeting will bring a radiant light [אלשיך].
On a practical level, the women urge Saul to hurry and outline a precise schedule. If he moves quickly, he can still catch Samuel at home [מצודת דוד], before the prophet ascends to the local high place. Following the destruction of Shiloh, sacrifices at private altars were permitted. This high place served as the location for the sacrifice and the subsequent feast where the people gathered to eat the peace offerings. Samuel would attend these gatherings to guide the people along the proper path [רש״י, אברבנאל].
The women emphasize that the people will not begin eating until Samuel arrives. Therefore, Saul must be swift, as Samuel will not linger at home. The prophet will rush out to avoid burdening the crowds waiting for him [מלבי״ם, מצודת דוד, אברבנאל]. Samuel's presence at the feast is essential because he must bless the sacrifice. The primary approach among commentators is that Samuel acted as the host who breaks the bread at the start of the meal, or that he recited a specific blessing over the consumption of the sacrificial meat. Only after this blessing can the specially invited guests begin to eat [רד״ק, מצודת ציון].
Finally, the women instruct Saul to go up immediately, assuring him that he will find the prophet at this exact time [מצודת ציון, רד״ק]. They make it clear that Saul must act right away rather than postponing his search until tomorrow. Samuel is only in the city for the day to attend the sacrifice; by the next day, he will have either returned to his own home or traveled to another city [מלבי״ם, אברבנאל].