Tried to. Surprised is the word I would use, although to my credit I think the bear had a story to share upon returning to its den. I refused to lose too easily.

[It's Lawrence's own manner that encourages Alfred to smile and laugh again, validation of his own engaging ways. He consumes his wine until it's a little less than half a cup left.] No one can call himself a man if he's not willing to get his hands a little dirty and his pride hung out to dry. To have it hung out to dry by a bear? That's not terribly shameful.

[He is feeling warmer again, oblivious to plotting but just as much willing to extend their company.] A beer or two after the wine, Monsieur Blanc?