Thinking about the book makes his throat twinge, and he lifts his hand from Arthur's back as he sets his cane back up to rub his neck uncomfortably. Knowing Arthur can't see it... he's not sure he wants to tell him about the bruises. God knows he won't take it well, when just hearing his voice nearly caused the guy to crack like a cornered perp.

"Hey, you never seemed to have trouble getting home when you got this way from the drink," he comments wryly instead. "But... shit, Lester. The fucker that strung me up left you blind - you've been out here for months like that?"

Not doubting his capacity, but concerned for the fact he'd had to develop it at all.