[It seems appropriate at this point to top up Julian’s glass, and so he does. It’s clear they’re traversing raw territory. He’s not a socially adept man, but he knows the signs, and it doesn’t take a socially adept man to realise Julian is probably harbouring anxiety and guilt knowing the plague may be ravaging through his world without him there to offer any release from it.]

I reiterate what I said earlier, at your first mention of the plague: that’s an admirable role you played. And it becomes increasingly so with each addition.

[He wants to offer some sort of resolution to Julian's story, like he has offered so many others over the years. But he can’t; he’s restricted to gin and hospitality. At least Julian appears to have an appreciation for both.]

But perhaps I should give you reprieve from storytelling. [So there won’t be any more of those raw laughs or crooked smiles.] I invite you to ask me a question, which I will make an effort to spin into a story. It’s only fair after you have been so generous.