I'd rather you left me alone.' The tone was not exactly impatient; it spoke a weary indifference to everything and every person.
'Yes, I'll go away, dear.

But you'll eat just a bit?
If you don't like this, you must tell me, and I'll get something you could fancy.' 'It'll do well enough.

I'll eat it presently; I promise you.' John hesitated before going.
'Clara--shall you mind Amy and Annie comin' to sleep here?
If you'd rather, we'll manage it somehow else.' 'No.

What does it matter?
They can come when they like, only they mustn't want me to talk to them.' He went softly from the room, and joined the children at their tea.

His mood had grown brighter.