Instead of replying, he can't help another laugh, this time at Livia's expression. "Apologies--apologies. I must, well, admit: it has--it has been a long time since, well, I have seen such an expression on...you, sister." Too long, he reflected, along with emotions other than polite interest and cheer. Was that calcifying of expression the mark, perhaps, of a woman who needed a change? "And on, err, the subject of Mrs. Yaxley: I think--I shall, I mean--attempt to." He finally chances a sip of his iced tea. "I'm afraid that my...err, my--deficiency of overpatience is still with me, however."