This one, I think is better.

How are--how are _you ?_" The slight emphasis she placed on the last word was airy and regardless.

Janet would have preferred to have been met by one of the old affectations; she would have felt herself taken more seriously.
"It's very late to come, and I interrupt you," she said awkwardly, glancing at the manuscript.
"Not at all.

I am very happy--" "But of course I had a special reason for coming.

It is serious enough, I think, to justify me." "What can it be!" "_Don't_, Elfrida," Janet cried passionately.