His frown deepened at her response, and for a moment he had to concentrate on not responding as his predecessor would have. Part of him was far too close to what the ninth Doctor had been, far too close to that rage. "No. It doesn't give him the right," he agreed, speaking quietly and slowly, trying to put Lucie first, ahead of his own emotions. "It isn't an excuse. It's only an explanation."
He paused, and took a deep breath. "He does care, Lucie. More than he can stand."