That is incredibly flattering, and while a stranger's compliment isn't that likely to persuade me - you are my friend, and you can sway me. [ A bit chagrined, because really? Praise him and he'll do as he asks, is that what he's essentially saying? ] I feel as if you're already armed with far too much ammunition against me, but here we are.

[ And then a small wince. ] I wasn't thinking specifically of myself - but I was thinking other soldiers were likely to behave as I've done, so perhaps the distinction is meaningless. I can't tell you why this has been a difficulty for me, but it's something I've been aware of long since before I arrived here.