"I understand that you are nervous and over-strained.

That is no reason for behaving like a fool." He also paused an instant before speaking.

Then, all at once, his features assumed an expression of docility, not at all natural to him.
"Yes," he answered, "I will try.

I think you are quite right.

I really am very much over-strained in these days." Matilde was surprised by his change of manner, but was glad to find that she could control him so easily.
"It will pass," she said more gently.