Her action was purposeful, and he relinquished it.

The misery in his eyes gave place to a dumb curiosity.
"Now," Stella said, "get to bed, and I will bring you some of Tommy's quinine." She turned from him, revolver in hand, but paused and in a moment turned back.
"Captain Monck, you heard what I said, didn't you?
You will go straight to bed ?" Her voice held a hint of pleading, despite its insistence.

He straightened himself in his chair.

He was still looking at her with an odd wonder in his eyes--wonder that was mixed with a very unusual touch of reverence.
"I will do--whatever you wish," he said.
"Thank you," said Stella.

"Then please let me find you in bed when I come back!" She turned once more to go, went to the door and opened it.