Colin isn't surprised. Every Circle has its ghosts, but those of Kinloch Hold were recent and many. Everyone has their way of coping.

He makes a face at the Orlesian thing--mere disdain, not true disgust. "Well if she doesn't fan herself with imported lace and swoon at the mere thought of housing an undesirable like yourself, I guess she might have the fortitude to pick up her silk skirts over her diamond shoes and tell her butler to help her carry a piece of paper to you."

Despite his amusement, he says it quietly. Which is good, incidentally, in case Gwen is listening.