Possible Clues:

• Assertiveness
• Refuse to compromise with coppers losing the head with command
• Big demand by member of the medical profession endlessly found in public house with Clare
• Assertion; determination
• Urging son to participate in playing tennis to break ice
• Don't take no for an answer from English novice initially, one of the Clares, in great demand
• Swear it's a small measure - Clare is not letting it go
• Continual and persistent demands
• Swear at small measure - civil engineer initially is not letting it go
• Pressure, of a sort