They all like to think their word is law, and you can do anything you please if you pretend you are afraid to do anything without asking their permission.

And always humour them in one thing.
Now, Aaron insists on punctuality.

His meals must be ready on the stroke, and once he is fed, I can do as I please.

Now, do be ruled by me, dearie, and come home." But Ada had turned unmanageable, and called for more drink.

Mrs Herring could have slapped her.