"It was--that and more. But seeing this little spirit in sympathy with you is a fine thing, too. You have taught him to choose good company."

He watches the little bird hop about, his smile fading into a thoughtful look.

"Yet if we were things born not to shed a tear, I know not how thy joy we ever should come near." He's clearly quoting, and mostly to himself. He sighs, and goes on in a more usual tone.

"I am going to be leaving soon, for a while. I don't know if that's something or nothing to you, but I didn't want to leave without letting you know, and letting you know how to reach me then, if you need to -- if it seems to you that you do, and not by anyone else's judgement."