( The nerve of these young fools, speaking well past their turn, the absolute and irredeemable audacity. Mr. Briggs considers withdrawing himself, but then —

Then...

...well, perhaps there is a point to staying, if only to enlighten the new generation on those professions of true merit and natural account. He might yet inspire this young man to turn to his studies, and wouldn't that be auspicious? )

I trained as an accountant. ( And then he strayed from the righteous path. No. Someone strayed him. ) Now, I handle... logistics at ports, pr customs, or in transportation, or other... operations, largely for Captain Kreil. ( But then, he nods, graciously. ) I find my services are often loaned to Captain Vane, now, as a results of Captain Kreil's magnanimity.

( He refuses to deploy the wretched monikers the men of the sea have allocated to their leaders. It is beneath him. )