"But I can't.

He really is a sweep!" "You are an impertinent little wretch!" she said, and left him.
"Au revoir," said Tinker gently.
But she only tossed her head, and hurried on.

Yet Tinker's honest expression of opinion had impressed her: she had a belief in the instinct of children generally and, like most people who came into contact with him, she had a strong belief in the instinct of Tinker.
She tried to forget his words; but they kept recurring to her, and in spite of herself, unconsciously, they put her on her guard.
Tinker watched her out of sight, then he had half a thought of telling Claire that she had gone to Courtnay, doubtless at his summons.

But he saw quickly that there was no need, and dismissed the thought from his mind.

Also, he kept out of his cousin's way for some days; he had a feeling that,--however grateful she might be to him, the sight of him, reminding her of how badly Courtnay had behaved, would be unpleasant to her.
However, he watched her from a distance, and saw that she was pale and listless.