Fortunately enough, James is entirely on board with the idea of attempting a distraction. Not only is it worth the try for Francis' sake, particularly if the brief retreat into the cellar does little to improve his mood, but truthfully James could use something else to focus on as well.

So when Raju suggests cooking it's a perfect opportunity, and his answer is indeed the one expected of him. "I don't." James has spent most of his time on ships, or out on some expedition or another, or even staying in the home of someone who had offered hospitality; the few times he'd been at home, it had been as a child, or he'd been staying with his brother who could easily afford to employ a cook. Here, James hasn't really bothered with the stove, preferring for a number of reasons to simply use the fireplace if he even bothers to cook at all.

But it could be a useful skill to have, and beyond that, it's something to do. He's pretty sure he has an idea of Raju's plan, and rises to his feet with only minimal leaning on the table before he approaches the kitchen. "Perhaps this is a good time to learn."