[And for a moment, something in the expression of the man studying him from beyond the reach of the cell alters. It's as if the specific point of his attention wanders—not away exactly, but beyond or through. If there were a think lurking over the prisoner's shoulder, he might be examining that.

But of course there is nothing (save for the various accoutrement of captivity, other cellmates included), and after a moment he returns to himself.

Ralston looks directly at him.]

Yes, I think so. Should you recall what it is, ask for Ralston. I'm sure I won't be your only visitor. Likely there will be some bleeding heart happy to carry a message.

[With a scrape of the cane's foot, he steps back.]