He has tried it.

Does he sleep well ?" "No." "Has he a hearty appetite ?" "No." "Is he a light-hearted, cheery sort of chap to have about the place ?" "He's naturally tired, after his winter's work," said Doria.
"He's played out," said I, "and if you are a wise woman, you'll take him away for a couple of months' rest, and when he gets back, see that he works at lower pressure." Doria promised to do her best; but she sighed.
"You don't realise Adrian's iron will." Once more I recognised with a shock that I did not know my Adrian.

I used to think one could blow the thistledown fellow about whithersoever one pleased.

Of the two, Doria seemed to have unquestionably the stronger will-power.
"Surely," said I, "you can twist him round your little finger." Doria sighed again--and a wanly indulgent smile played about her lips.
"You two dear people are so sensible, that it makes me almost angry to see how you can't begin to understand Adrian.

As a man, of course I have a certain influence over him.