He could volunteer an introduction, certainly, but at this stage it might only sidetrack them. It's not an opportune time to spook the boy. He seems to have a funny hit-or-miss record; half his acquaintances balk at the title, openly alarmed, while the other half only go closed and curious. At least on the boat, there may be a measure of reassurance in his authority.

When he settles back into his chair beside his stack of books, it's clearly a dismissal.

"Good to meet you, Paul. I'll be in touch."