"It can't be done, child.

I can't risk that.
Besides, there'd be no one to look after you." She slipped to her feet in a flare of indignation.

"You're a pig, Billikins! You're a pig!" she cried, and tore her hands free.

"I've a good mind to run away from you and never come back.

It's what you deserve, and what you'll get, if you aren't careful!" She was gone with the words--gone like a flashing insect disturbing the silence for a moment, and leaving a deeper silence behind.
Merryon looked after her for a second or two, and then philosophically continued his meal.