"And I shall not go so far but what I can get back before night.

Yes, all said and done, I think it vastly better for you to remain, and sleep, and rest and do nothing." She turned and looked me in the eyes.

Her gaze was unfaltering, but soft.
"Please, please," she said, oh, so softly.
I stiffened myself to refuse, and shook my head.

Still she waited and looked at me.

I tried to word my refusal, but wavered.