[ A long inhale. ]

Why can't she know you asked?

I am happy to try to find out for you, of course, but I—all of this find out but don't let her know why business. She's very clever. If something has happened and then I show up asking about you right on its heels, she will be able to guess. [ And lightly musing, in a cheer up sort of way: ] I suppose she might be less wary if she thinks both of us are idiots.