[ before he chuckles softly, and rests his hand lightly on the boy's head to ruffle his hair in a gently teasing, fond gesture ]

Hens are cute, I'll give you that. And I bet you'll do a wonderful job looking after them, the roosters too! They'll be lucky to have such a kind caretaker.

[ but-- ]

But you mentioned... a gift? Something the Admin gave you? [ that is cause for some concern, not only because of the child's circumstances, but the priest does not trust that man ]